Main description:

Neurological conditions (stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease etc.) account for the third largest number of patient admissions within the UK (after heart disease and cancer). Very little attention or priority is given to the needs of these patients and many are nursed outside specialist units (acute neurology cases account for 20% of admissions to general medical wards). This book aims to help students and registered nurses develop their skills in caring for patients with ongoing neurological disorders. Care of the Neurological Patient focuses on practical care in a non-specialist setting, using the '12 Activities of Living' model of nursing. The initial chapter addresses assessment and prioritisation of care needs and subsequent chapters focus on specific patient needs in each of the twelve areas. Topics include swallowing and elimination problems, sensory and perceptual problems, chronic pain and fatigue, depression, cognitive and communication problems, mobility problems and spasticity. It Includes practical evidence-based guidelines for managing existing problems and preventing complications.

Contents:

Ch1 Background Anatomy and Physiology. Ch2 Nursing Assessment. Ch3 Maintaining a Safe Environment. Ch4 Communicating. Ch5 Breathing. Ch6 Eating and Drinking. Ch7 Eliminating. Ch8 Washing and Dressing. Ch9 Controlling Body Temperature. Ch10 Mobilising. Ch11 Working and Playing. Ch12 Expressing Sexuality. Ch13 Sleeping. Ch14 Dying. Ch15 National Service Framework for Long Term Conditions and Skill Competencies in Neurological Care