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week 8
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the three major functions of the Nervous System? | 1. Sensory: Detects internal/external stimuli (pain, temp). 2. Motor: Initiates muscle contraction and voluntary movement. 3. Integrative: Processes/interprets input and makes decisions. |
| Which part of the brain is the largest and what is its general function? | The Cerebrum. It is responsible for high-level functions, including touch, vision, hearing, speech, reasoning, emotions, and fine control of movement. |
| What are the functions of the Hypothalamus? | Temperature regulation Hunger and thirst Controlling the Pituitary gland Regulating the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) |
| Why is damage to the Brainstem life-threatening? | Because it controls vital functions including respiration (breathing), heart rate, blood pressure, and swallowing. |
| What is "Ataxia" and which part of the brain is likely damaged? | Ataxia is a lack of muscle coordination and balance. It indicates damage to the Cerebellum. |
| Contrast the Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous Systems. | Sympathetic: "Fight or Flight" (↑ HR, ↑ BP, dilated pupils). Parasympathetic: "Rest and Digest" (↓ HR, stimulates digestion, constricts pupils). |
| What is the primary cause of Parkinson's Disease? | A progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the Substantia Nigra. |
| Explain the neurotransmitter imbalance in Parkinson's. | There is a decrease in Dopamine (inhibitory/smooth movement) and an over-activity of Acetylcholine (excitatory/muscle contraction). |
| What are the 4 Cardinal Signs of Parkinson’s (TRAP)? | Tremor (resting, "pill-rolling") Rigidity (cogwheel) Akinesia / Bradykinesia (slow movement) Postural Instability (falls) |
| What are some common "Motor" manifestations of PD? | Shuffling gait Mask-like face (decreased expression) Micrographia (small handwriting) Drooling/Stooped posture |
| How is Parkinson's Disease diagnosed? | There is no single test. It is a clinical diagnosis based on the presence of TRAP symptoms and the patient’s positive response to Levodopa. |
| How does Levodopa-Carbidopa work? | Levodopa converts into dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa prevents the levodopa from breaking down in the bloodstream before it reaches the brain. |
| What is a critical dietary restriction for patients taking Levodopa? | Avoid high-protein meals at the same time as the medication, as protein can interfere with the absorption of Levodopa. |
| What is the purpose of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)? | Electrodes are implanted in the basal ganglia to reduce tremors and improve motor function when medications are no longer sufficient. |
| What are the two most dangerous complications of Parkinson's Disease? | 1. Aspiration Pneumonia (due to impaired swallowing/drooling). 2. Falls (due to postural instability and shuffling gait). |
| Nursing Interventions for "Impaired Swallowing" in PD? | Small, frequent meals. Maintain an upright position while eating. Assess gag reflex and suction if necessary. |
| Nursing Interventions for "Impaired Physical Mobility" in PD? | Encourage Range of Motion (ROM) exercises. Consult Physical Therapy. Provide clear, clutter-free environments to prevent falls. |