Week 10

Question 1

What is an external ventricular drain (EVD)

Answer 1

Drainage of excessive CSF
Aid in administration of antibiotics to the brain
Catheter inserted via a burr hole into one of the lateral ventricles
Connected to an external drainage bag
At scalp incision, the probe is sutured and clear dressing insitu

Question 2

Nursing management of EVD

Answer 2

drain site, drain probe and tubing, drainage bag, levelling and monitoring of the CSF drainage hourly

Question 3

What is the Monroe Kellie Hypothesis

Answer 3

CSF = 10%; Intravascular blood = 12% (lecture 10%); Brain tissue 78% (lecture 80%). These three components must remain within the 100% volume in the closed skull. Should one increase then one, or both, of the others have to adjust to maintain a constant volume. Only valid for closed head injuries.

Question 4

Define Nuchal rigidity

Answer 4

neck stiffness-a key sign of meningitis.

Question 5

What is Decorticate positioning

Answer 5

Flexion of arms, wrists and fingers with adduction in upper extremities

Question 6

What is Decerebrate positioning

Answer 6

All four extremities in rigid extension. Toes point downward and head and neck arch backward.

Question 7

Define Hemiparesis

Answer 7

Paralysis on one side of the body.

Question 8

What is Proprioception

Answer 8

The ability of the brain to sense stimuli arising within the body regarding position, motion and equilibrium.

Question 9

Mannitol Action

Answer 9

The osmotic diuretic draws fluid out of the brain cells by increasing the osmolarity of the blood

Question 10

Hypertonic saline action

Answer 10

Treatment of cerebral oedema (reduce content of water in the brain, decreasing ICP)

Question 11

Serotonergic action

Answer 11

SSRI medications may improve motor outcome and cognitive function after stroke

Question 12

Dopaminergic action

Answer 12

These medications regulate many aspects of neural functioning such as plasticity. May improve movement, learning and plasticity.

Question 13

main functions of the hypothalamus

Answer 13

The hypothalamus’ main role is to keep the body in homeostasis as much as possible. Homeostasis means a healthful, balanced bodily state. The body is always trying to achieve this balance.

Question 14

Describe Cushing’s Triad

Answer 14

Cushing’s triad is seen when increased ICP decreases cerebral blood flow. A response is triggered that increases arterial pressure in order to overcome the increased ICP.

Question 15

Normal range for intracranial pressure

Answer 15

Normal ICP is 5-15mmHg