NR 305 Week 3 Discussion Topic, Assessment of the Neurological System

NR 305 Week 3 Discussion Assessment of the Neurological System 1) The possible cause of Randy’s symptoms could be from a concussion or a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some people may have memory loss or problems with memory, headaches, problems with sleeping, dizziness, not able to concentrate, irritability or nervousness, mood changes, problems with balance, feeling sad or sensitivity to light or noise. These problems can definitely impact your quality of life, which can lead to problems in relationships, poor work or school performance, and sadly even suicide. Any damage to the nervous system may cause weakness, loss of sensation, or impaired ability to understand and process (Jarvis, 2016, pg. 634). 2) Neurological assessment tools used when I was in nursing school was the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). This is used to determine levels of consciousness. This scale is determined by response to eye opening, motor and verbal. A fully alert person would get a 15 on this test, and someone with a score less than 7 reflects being in a coma (Jarvis, 2016). 3) Some current best practices associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are couples counseling and psychoeducation that includes cognitive behavioral conjoint therapy. The first phase of treatment focuses on education regarding safety issues and the impact that PTSD has on intimate relationships (Sensiba & Franklin, 2015). Communication skills and avoidant type of behaviors are addressed. Then addressing the couples’ negative cognitions that harm the relationship the most. Some antidepressant and/or antipsychotics for PTSD maybe helpful in some cases. “Infrared light therapy may have benefit in PTSD and depression” (Henderson, 2017). It is very important with those seeking help for PTSD, that the provider recognizes posttraumatic growth (PTG) also. When identifying someone seeking help, going to treatments and using adaptive coping skills will encourage them for success to rehabilitation. 4) Some nursing interventions included in Randy’s plan of care would be to first reassure Randy that he is in a safe place. Explain who I am and tell him what that plan of care is. Establishing rapport with him to gain his trust is vital. I would encourage him to express any concerns or feelings he may have. Make sure he is not having flashbacks or memories from the war in Iraq or the MVA. Continue to asses Randy’s level of conscience and take vitals hourly or as directed. Lastly, referring Randy to other sources of support such as support groups or community organizations.