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
