Peripheral Neuropathy

What is the etiology of peripheral neuropathy?

-polyneuropathy is complication -Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) -systemic disease -prognosis ranges

What are the considered the no catch-all drug to treat pain in peripheral neuropathy?

-pain relievers -anticonvulsants -antidepressants -lidocaine patch

What is the pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy?

-peripheral nervous system (PNS) linked to central nervous system (CNS) -axon and myelin -polyneuropathies -mononeuropathies

What diagnostic tests are used for peripheral neuropathy?

-EMG -CBC -thyroid function tests -serum levels for B12 and thiamine -metabolic panel -urine screening -nerve biopsy

What are the types of neuropathies?

-acquired -hereditary -idiopathic

What may be included in complementary therapies for peripheral neuropathy?

-acupuncture -biofeedback -TENS -massage

What is polyneuropathies?

-bilateral sensory disorders -most common types associated with diabetes

What are considered complementary therapies for peripheral neuropathy?

-compliance with therapeutic regimen for primary condition -healthy, well-balanced diet -regular exercise program -maintenance of optimal weight -smoking cessation -limits of alcohol intake -daily foot care

What are the clinical manifestations of peripheral neuropathy?

-depends on nerve affected, damage -commonly distal paresthesias -GBS -weakness in arms or legs -pain

What are risk factors of peripheral neuropathy?

-diabetes -alcohol abuse -vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins -immune system suppression -kidney, liver, thyroid disorders -exposure to toxins -age

What nursing diagnosis are used with peripheral neuropathy?

-disturbed sensory perception -pain -anxiety

What topics should be included when teaching a patient about disturbed sensory perception in a patient with peripheral neuropathy?

-foot care -smoking cessation -exercise -nutrition -avoidance of topical chemicals -avoidance of repetitive motion/prolonged pressure -massage to improve circulation, stimulate nerves -referrals as appropriate

What nursing process is included in the assessment for peripheral neuropathy?

-health history -physical examination

What is mononeuropathies?

-isolated, affect a single nerve -injury, trauma, repetitive motions

What implementation is included in regards to pain in a patient with peripheral neuropathy?

-listen to description of pain, triggers, pattern -use pain scale for determining extent of pain -use complementary therapies to manage pain -provide analgesics as indicated on schedule -for client with GBS, monitor for side effects

What is the treatment of peripheral neuropathy?

-no specific treatment -no catch-all drug to treat pain -physical therapy, occupational therapy to maintain mobility -complimentary therapies

What does the plan include in treatment of peripheral neuropathy?

-promote client safety and prevent injury -assess client pain, promote nonpharmacological interventions -encourage client to voice feelings, concerns

What is included in the health history for peripheral neuropathy?

-sensory impairments -comorbidities -location, intensity, exacerbating factors

What are clinical manifestations of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

-stocking-glove pattern -respiratory compromise

What is peripheral neuropathy?

Refers to any disease, disorder, or damage to the peripheral nervous system

What evaluation is included with a patient with peripheral neuropathy?

Client experiences pain control to allow for rest and comfort -client list strategies to reduce risk of injury and promote safety -client describes treatment plan to reduce further deterioration of sensation

What is included in the physical examination for macular degeneration?

Cranial nerve and sensory/motor assessment

What implementation is included in regards to disturbed sensory perception in a patient with peripheral neuropathy?

teach client preventive measures