Week 7 - Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)

Question 1

what is duchenne muscular dystrophy

Answer 1

• most severe & common form of MD in children

- chronic, progressive, incapacitating disease

Question 2

what is DMD characterized by (2)

Answer 2

• progressive muscle degeneration and weakness

- leg muscle hypertrophy followed by later atrophy and contarctures

Question 3

describe the onset on DMD; what are first signs of DMD

Answer 3

• early onset
• typically 3-5 years old
• first signs include toe walking and falling over

Question 4

what are risk factors for DMD (2)

Answer 4

• genetic –> X linked

- FHx

Question 5

at what age do individuals w DMD get loss of independent mobility

Answer 5

• by 12 y.o

Question 6

describe the progression of DMD

Answer 6

• slow

Question 7

what complications of DMD typically lead to the individuals death (2)

Answer 7

• resp and cardiac dysfunction & failure

- d/t inability to contract cardiac and resp muscles

Question 8

describe the impact of DMD on body composition. why does this occur

Answer 8

• obesity

- d/t lack of mobility, activity, and exercise

Question 9

what psychosocial impact does DMD have

Answer 9

• can cause social isolation and depression

Question 10

describe the nursing role r/t DMD

Answer 10

• pt and family coping
• empathetic approach
• pt and family education

Question 11

describe pt and family education for DMD (5)

Answer 11

• that DMD is progressive and incapacitating
• what the disease will look like as it progresses
• may require possible tracheostomy
• longterm care
• end of life care/directives