MH HW Chapt 22-23.100%

Chapter 22 1. An alteration in which neurotransmitter is most closely associated with the etiology of Alzheimer’s disease? Dramatic reduction in acetylcholine. The enzyme required to produce acetylcholine is dramatically reduced. The reduction seems to be greatest in the nucleus basalis of the inferior medial forebrain area. The decrease in production of acetylcholine reduces the amount of the neurotransmitter that is released to cells in the cortex and hippocampus, resulting in cognitive process disturbances. Other neurotransmitters believed to be disrupted include norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine and the amino acid glutamate. 2. How does vascular neurogonitive disorder differ from NCD caused by Alzheimer’s disease? Directly related to interruption of blood flow to the brain. In vascular NCD, cognitive symptoms are caused by significant cerebrovascular disease, when blood flow in the brain in impaired, causing progressive intellectual deterioration. Impairment may be located in large vessels or microvascular networks, so symptoms vary depending on type, extent and location of lesions. 3. What is pseudodementia? Pseudodementia is depression. Depression in one of the most common mental illnesses in the elderly, but it is often misdiagnosed and treated inadequately. 4. What is the primary concern for nurses working with clients with NCDs? The most common clinical complications are eating problems and infections.