seizures + MS Flashcards
What causes seizures?
Abnormal and excessive firing of neurons in the brain at a much faster rate than normal.
What are the four phases of a seizure?
Prodromal phase (sensations or behavioral changes before seizure), Aural phase (sensory warning), Ictal phase (seizure activity), Postictal phase (recovery phase).
What are the signs and symptoms of generalized seizures?
Loss of muscle tone, risk for head injury, brief loss of consciousness.
What are the characteristics of tonic-clonic seizures?
Loss of consciousness, stiffened body (tonic), jerking extremities (clonic), cyanosis, excessive salivation, tongue/cheek biting, muscle soreness, fatigue, and amnesia.
What are the signs and symptoms of focal seizures?
Atonic/tonic/myoclonic movements, purposeless actions, emotional manifestations, hallucinated sensations, localized twitching, loss of consciousness or dreamlike state, dangerous/embarrassing acts, amnesia, fatigue, confusion.
What seizure precautions should be taken?
Side-lying position, padded side rails, patent airway with suction at bedside, no restraints, remove sharp objects/glasses.
What nursing interventions are needed postictal?
Assist with ventilation, monitor vital signs and PERRLA, reorient the patient, ensure NPO status until gag reflex returns.
What patient education should be provided for seizures?
Avoid triggers, adhere to medications, establish a support system, understand driving restrictions, ensure therapeutic medication levels.
What medical treatments are available for seizures?
Surgical resection of focal area, laser ablation, radiosurgery, or vagal nerve stimulation (CN10) to regulate brain activity.
What diagnostic tests help evaluate seizures?
Health history, EEG, CBC, LFTs, kidney function tests, urinalysis, CT/MRI, lumbar puncture.
What medication is commonly prescribed for seizures?
Levetiracetam slows down electrical signals to stop seizures.
What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?
An autoimmune disorder in which CNS nerves undergo demyelination, leading to slowed nerve impulse transmission, impaired function, and inflammation.
What are the four types of MS?
Relapsing-remitting (most common), Primary progressive, Secondary progressive, Progressive-relapsing.
What are the early signs and symptoms of MS?
Numbness/tingling, blurred vision, nystagmus, hearing loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, pain, emotional lability, spastic bladder, diarrhea/constipation.
Who is at the highest risk for MS?
Women aged 20-40 years old.
What nursing interventions are important for MS patients?
Avoid extreme temperatures, balance exercise with rest, schedule activities in the morning, prevent infections, ensure a safe environment, assist with ADLs, provide support group resources, educate on family planning, medication adherence, and flare-up triggers.
What care should be given to bedbound MS patients?
Turn frequently, keep skin dry, prevent pressure ulcers.
What self-care techniques should MS patients learn?
Self-catheterization for bladder issues, high-fiber diet for constipation, light aerobic or water exercises for mobility.
What are the diagnostic criteria for MS?
1) At least two inflammatory demyelinating lesions in two different CNS locations. 2) At least two attacks occurring at least one month apart. 3) All other possible diagnoses ruled out.
What imaging test helps diagnose MS?
MRI with contrast showing sclerotic lesions (plaques).
What role does a detailed health history play in MS diagnosis?
It helps track symptom onset, progression, and rule out other conditions.
