Rehabilitation in Neurology

Question 1

Functions of rehabilitation

Answer 1

Prevention and reduction of activity limitation and participation arising from impairments
Management of disability from a physical, psychological and vocational point of view

Question 2

Types of long-term neurological conditions

Answer 2

Sudden onset 
Intermittent/unpredictable 
Progressive 
Stable 
Muscle disease 
Guillain-Barre syndrome

Question 3

Physical problems from long-term neurological conditions

Answer 3

Weakness 
Loss of/abnormal sensation 
Increased/decreased tone/spasticity 
Visual disturbance 
Loss of hearing 
Loss of smell and taste 
Swallowing and communication difficulties 
Bladder and bowel difficulties 
Pain syndrome 
Seizures/epilepsy

Question 4

Cognitive problems after brain injury

Answer 4

Post-traumatic amnesia 
Confusion/disorientation 
Severe memory problems 
Poor concentration/attention 
Slowed thinking 
Poor executive functioning

Question 5

Psychiatric/behavioural problems after brain injury

Answer 5

Depression 
Anxiety 
Personality change 
Irritability 
Childishness/selfishness/laziness 
Behavioural problems e.g. aggression, disinhibition

Question 6

Examples of people working in multidisciplinary teams

Answer 6

Physiotherapists
Occupational therapists 
Speech and language therapists 
Nurses 
Dieticians 
Orthotists 
Doctors 
Neuropsychologists 
Social workers

Question 7

Features of assessment in rehabilitation

Answer 7

History and examination 
Mobility 
Activities of daily living 
Mood and cognition 
Bladder and bowel function 
Communication and swallowing 
Skin, vision and hearing

Question 8

Process of rehabilitation

Answer 8

Problem list 
Set goals 
Identify barrier issues 
Formulate management plan 
Draw upon relevant disciplines 
Involve patient, family and carers

Question 9

SMART goals

Answer 9

Specific 
Measurable 
Achievable 
Relevant 
Time limited

Question 10

Where might rehabilitation occur?

Answer 10

Acute hospital 
Rehabilitation ward 
Outpatient centre 
Community facilities 
Vocational rehabilitation service 
In patients home

Question 11

Benefits of rehabilitation

Answer 11

Greater independence
Greater chance of getting home/remaining at home
Increased comfort and dignity
Increased chance of remaining in/returning to work
Improved quality of life
Reduced need for care/assistance