NURSING 504-Review for NCLEX-NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

NURSING 504-Review for NCLEX-NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS Neurological Disorders NCLEX Tips  Monitor a client with a neurological disorder for signs of increased intracranial pressure.  The earliest indicator of increased intracranial pressure is deterioration in the level of consciousness.  Airway is always a priority for a client with a neurological disorder.  A client with a head injury should be placed in a head-elevated position.  The victim of an accident should not be moved until it has been determined that that the person has not sustained a spinal cord injury.  Measures to ensure safety are a priority for the client with a neurological disorder.  Promote independence in regard to self-care activities as much as possible.  Encourage discussion about the psychosocial issues that may occur as a result of the neurological disorder (e.g., body image alterations, altered sexual function). Increased Intracranial Pressure  Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a build-up of pressure within the cranium that affects the circulation in the brain, the absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the function of nerve cells.  An untreated increase in ICP may result in brainstem compression and death.