Journal of neurosurgical nursing最新文献

Although epilepsy remains an unsolved medical problem, there is a type of epilepsy known as 'photosensitive epilepsy' described in the medical literature that could serve as the window to understanding the pathophysiology of all epilepsies. Photosensitive epilepsy is a seizure phenomenon caused by exposure to bright and/or flickering light. This type of epilepsy has been estimated to occur in one of every 10,000 people. The nurse's role in this pathological state includes meticulous notations of seizure activity, adverse medication reactions, and psychological assessment of the photosensitive epileptic client.

Pineal region brain tumors occur in and around the pineal gland, a small cone-shaped structure in the posterior portion of the diencephalon. Pineal tumors can be divided into four basic categories: 1) germ cell tumors, 2) pineal tumors, 3) supporting cell tumors, and 4) cysts, or non-malignant conditions. Germinomas, one type of germ cell tumors, are the most common type of pineal region tumor. In overall incidence, pineal region tumors are relatively uncommon; however, because these tumors are mainly diagnosed in childhood and young adulthood, the incidence in that age group has been reported as high as nine percent. Pathophysiology and signs and symptoms are discussed as well as medical treatment and nursing care. The case study is a presentation of a 22-year-old male with a pineal region tumor.

The assessment and management of abdominal disease in persons with spinal cord injuries is extremely complex. Alterations in the normal conduction of impulses to the brain can result in symptoms that may be quite unlike those which are commonly associated with abdominal pathology. A number of features, however, have been identified which can assist the practitioner in the interpretation of the clinical evaluation. This article discusses those findings and the most commonly occurring abdominal disorders in which they are seen. Two case studies are presented which exemplify the symptomatology described and which reinforce the need for early accurate diagnosis and management of abdominal disease in spinal cord injured persons.

Consistent and conscientious nursing care and assessments are known to have significant impact on the morbidity and mortality associated with increased intracranial pressure. These authors reviewed 100 charts to assess the documentation of nursing care for patients with actual or potential increased intracranial pressure. When their audit revealed fragmented and inconsistent documentation, they published and inserviced general guidelines (a standard care plan) utilizing nursing diagnoses. The audit criteria and subsequent standard care plan are provided in this article. Questions which were raised during the endeavor are presented as suggested areas for future nursing research.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as a new diagnostic technology has the capacity for both imaging of body tissues or organs in action and spectroscopy which examines the chemistry of individual cells in health and disease. The principles and application of imaging without the use of ionizing radiation are presented. Potential hazards associated with magnetic resonance imaging center primarily around metal implants, metal prosthesis, and cardiac pacemakers. While this scanning is considered a painless procedure, there are several areas where patient teaching and support are important.

The neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially fatal complication of antipsychotic drugs. It is characterized by severe muscular rigidity, hyperthermia, and autonomic disturbances. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is easily confused with other health problems; distinctions between it and malignant hyperthermia, heatstroke, and lethal catatonia are made. The relevant literature is reviewed; a case history is presented; and implications for nursing care (e.g., early detection) are discussed.