Nursing Care of Patients With Peripheral Nervous System Disorders

1. The nurse is caring for a patient experiencing an acute exacerbation of multiple sclerosis (MS). Which pathophysiological change should the nurse recognize as causing the manifestations of MS? a. Myelin buildup in the central nervous system b. Demyelination and destruction of nerve fibers c. Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) deficiency d. Reduced acetylcholine receptors with impaired nerve impulse transmission - B. Demyelination and destruction of nerve fibers In multiple sclerosis, the myelin sheath begins to break down or degenerates as a result of the activation of the bodys immune system. The nerve becomes inflamed and edematous. Nerve impulses to the muscles slow down. As the disease progresses, sclerosis or scar tissue damages the nerve. 2. The nurse is caring for a patient with an exacerbation of multiple sclerosis. Which medication should the nurse anticipate administering to this patient? a. Thyrotropin b. Pyridostigmine (Mestinon) c. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) d. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) - B. Pyridostigmine (Mestinon) Steroids such as ACTH, prednisone, and other corticotropic medications are given to decrease inflammation and edema of the neuron, which may relieve some symptoms. C. Benadryl is an antihistamine. B. Pyridostigmine (Mestinon) is used in myasthenia gravis. A. Thyrotropin stimulates release of thyroid hormone. 3. The nurse is caring for a patient with an exacerbation of multiple sclerosis (MS). What should the nurse include when teaching the patient about risk factors for exacerbation? a. Vegetarian diet b. Exposure to sun c. Sedentary lifestyle d. Urinary tract infection - D. Urinary tract infection A variety of factors can trigger the onset of symptoms or aggravate the condition, including extreme heat and cold, fatigue, infection, and physical and emotional stress.