Comprehensive Guide to the Care of the Adult Neurosurgical Patient

Neurosurgery is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Adult neurosurgical patients often require specialized care due to the complexity of their conditions and the potential for serious complications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the care of the adult neurosurgical patient, including assessment, monitoring, and management strategies.

Handbook of Neuroscience Nursing: Care of the Adult Neurosurgical Patient

by Rutger Bregman

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11840 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1107 pages

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Assessment

The initial assessment of the adult neurosurgical patient is critical to ensure timely and appropriate care. This assessment should include a thorough history and physical examination, as well as a review of the patient's medical records. The history should focus on the patient's symptoms, including the onset, duration, and severity of any pain, weakness, numbness, or other neurological deficits. The physical examination should include a complete neurological examination, as well as an assessment of the patient's vital signs and general health status.

In addition to the history and physical examination, several diagnostic tests may be necessary to evaluate the patient's condition. These tests may include:

* Computed tomography (CT) scan * Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan * Electroencephalography (EEG) * Electromyography (EMG) * Lumbar puncture

Monitoring

Once the patient's condition has been assessed, close monitoring is essential to ensure that the patient is responding to treatment and to prevent complications. The following parameters should be monitored closely:

* Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature) * Neurological status (level of consciousness, pupillary response, motor strength, sensation) * Intake and output * Pain level * Wound healing

Management

The management of the adult neurosurgical patient depends on the specific condition being treated. However, some general principles of management include:

* Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for many neurosurgical conditions. The type of surgery performed will depend on the location and severity of the condition. * Medication: Medications can be used to treat a variety of neurosurgical conditions, including pain, seizures, and infections. * Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can be used to treat certain types of brain tumors. * Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve the patient's strength, balance, and coordination after surgery. * Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help the patient to regain functional skills after surgery. * Speech therapy: Speech therapy can help the patient to improve their speech and language skills after surgery.

Complications

Neurosurgical procedures are complex and can carry a risk of complications. The most common complications include:

* Infection * Hemorrhage * Stroke * Seizures * Paralysis * Death

The care of the adult neurosurgical patient is a complex and challenging task. However, by following the principles outlined in this article, clinicians can provide the best possible care for these patients and improve their chances of a full recovery.

References

1. [American Association of Neurological Surgeons](https://www.aans.org/) 2. [Congress of Neurological Surgeons](https://www.cns.org/) 3. [National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/)

Handbook of Neuroscience Nursing: Care of the Adult Neurosurgical Patient

by Rutger Bregman

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11840 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1107 pages

FREE