Week 7 - ALS Flashcards
1
Q
what is ALS
A
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- rare, progressive, neurological disorders
2
Q
what is ALS characterized by
A
- loss of motor neurons
= weakness & atrophy of muscles of hands, forearms, and the legs –> spreading to involve most of the body and the face - progressive paralysis, mind is intact tho
3
Q
describe the prognosis of ALS
A
- typically leads to death within 2-6 years after diagnosis
4
Q
what are the typical symptoms of ALS (5)
A
- weakness of upper extremities
- dysarthria
- dysphagia
- muscle wasting
- twitching
5
Q
what typically leads to death in a pt with ALS
A
- resp infection d/t compromised resp function (inability to clear secretions, loss of gag reflex, etc.)
6
Q
is there a cure for ALS? treatment?
A
- no to both
7
Q
describe the impact of ALS on cognition
A
- none, pt is still cognitively intact
8
Q
what does nursing care for a pt with ALS include (7)
A
- facilitating communication
- guide pt in mod-intensity endurance types of exercise for the trunk & limbs to reduce spascitiy
- reduce risk of aspiration
- decrease pain r/t muscle weakness
- decrease risk of injury r/t falls
- provide diversional activities like reading & human companionship
- help pt & fam thru the disease process
9
Q
eventually, a pt with ALS may require
A
- tracheostomy & ventilatory
10
Q
what is imp in pts with ALS
A
- ACP
11
Q
what is something that is often considered with pts with ALS
A
- MAiD
