expected outcome: to restore cranial nerve function
medications
prednisone
analgesics
local comfort measures: heat, massage and electrical nerve stimulation for muscle tone
alternative actions: reiki, massage, imagery
Nursing interventions
provide balanced nutrition: soft diet
administer drugs as ordered
teach client
to chew on opposite side
how to use protective eye wear during risk periods
effects of steroids
the use of eye drugs or ointment to protect the eye from corneal irritation
that once findings disappear their return may occur especially in times of high stress
In multiple sclerosis, early changes tend to be in vision and motor sensation; late changes tend to be in cognition and bowel control.
Peripheral nerves can regenerate, but nerves in the spinal cord are thought to not be able to regenerate.
During a seizure, do not force anything into the client's mouth.
A major problem often associated with a left-sided CVA is an alteration in communication.
Clients with CVAs are at a greater risk for aspiration. Initially these clients must be evaluated to determine if dysphagia is present.
The rate, rhythm and depth of a client's respirations are more sensitive indicators of increases in intracranial pressure than blood pressure and pulse.
When caring for a comatose client, remember that the hearing is the last sense to be lost.
After a CVA clients often have a loss of memory, emotional lability and a decreased attention span.
Communication difficulties of a client with a CVA usually indicate involvement of the dominant hemisphere, usually left, and is associated with right sided hemiplegia or hemiparesis.
The client with myasthenia gravis will have more severe muscle weakness in the evening due to the fact that muscles weaken with activity - described as progressive muscle weakness - and regain strength with rest.
