LPN 132 Chapter 21 Student.pptx - CHAPTER 21 The Neurologic...

CHAPTER 21
The Neurologic System

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Theory

1. Define the vocabulary particular to
problems of the nervous system.

2. Discuss the differences in the action of
sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous
systems.

3. Identify four specific ways in which a
nurse can contribute to preventing
neurologic disorders.

4. Provide rational for the appropriate
preparation and postprocedure care for
patients undergoing lumbar puncture
(spinal tap), electroencephalography, and
radiologic studies of the brain and cerebral
vessels.

5. Become familiar with the techniques
used for assessment of the nervous system.

6. Compare and contrast the various signs
and symptoms of the common problems
experienced by patients with nervous
system disorders.
Clinical Practice

7. Gather a pertinent
history for a patient
with a nervous system
problem.

8. Demonstrate a
“neuro check.”

9. Score the neurologic
status of a patient with
a nervous system
disorder according to
the Glasgow Coma
Scale.

HOW IS THE NERVOUS
SYSTEM ORGANIZED?

Central nervous system (CNS)
 Brain and spinal cord

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

Sensory organs: eyes, ears, taste buds, touch
receptors
 12 pairs of cranial nerves (KNOW 1
ST
6)
 31 pairs of spinal nerves
 Subdivided into afferent (carries impulses to CNS)
and efferent (carries impulses away from CNS)

Sympathetic nerves : fight or flight (mobilize
energy)
 Parasympathetic nerves : conserve and restore
energy

RE
21-4

HOW DO NERVE IMPULSES
OCCUR?

CONDUCTION OF IMPULSES

Impulses travel 2 ways
 In a reflex arc: going to the spinal cord and traveling
back to an effector site
 Travel along nerve pathways to the brain to be
interpreted

After being interpreted brain sends message
through spinal cord or cranial nerves (PNS) for
action.

Many axons are surrounded by a myelin sheath
allowing faster conduction of nerve impulses.

When myelin is destroyed, impulse transmission slowed
(MS)

CNS PROTECTION

Bones of the skull and the vertebral column

Meninges (pia mater, arachnoid, and dura
mater)
