unilateral neglect

Question 1

what injuries can the nurse look for with a patient who has unilateral neglect?

Answer 1

observe affected extremities for injury such as bruises and abrasions of the affected hand and arm and hyperflexion of the foot from it falling off of the wheelchair during transport.

Question 2

what are teaching points for a patient with unilateral neglect?

Answer 2

1. Apply an arm sling if the client is unable to remember to care for the affected extremity.
2. Ensure that the footrest is on the wheelchair and that an ankle brace is on the affected foot.
3. Instruct the client to dress the affected side first. 4. Use the unaffected hand to pull the affected extremity to midline
4. Teach the client to look over the affected side periodically.