Week 7 - ALS

Question 1

what is ALS

Answer 1

• amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

- rare, progressive, neurological disorders

Question 2

what is ALS characterized by

Answer 2

• loss of motor neurons
  = weakness & atrophy of muscles of hands, forearms, and the legs –> spreading to involve most of the body and the face
• progressive paralysis, mind is intact tho

Question 3

describe the prognosis of ALS

Answer 3

• typically leads to death within 2-6 years after diagnosis

Question 4

what are the typical symptoms of ALS (5)

Answer 4

• weakness of upper extremities
• dysarthria
• dysphagia
• muscle wasting
• twitching

Question 5

what typically leads to death in a pt with ALS

Answer 5

• resp infection d/t compromised resp function (inability to clear secretions, loss of gag reflex, etc.)

Question 6

is there a cure for ALS? treatment?

Answer 6

• no to both

Question 7

describe the impact of ALS on cognition

Answer 7

• none, pt is still cognitively intact

Question 8

what does nursing care for a pt with ALS include (7)

Answer 8

• facilitating communication
• guide pt in mod-intensity endurance types of exercise for the trunk & limbs to reduce spascitiy
• reduce risk of aspiration
• decrease pain r/t muscle weakness
• decrease risk of injury r/t falls
• provide diversional activities like reading & human companionship
• help pt & fam thru the disease process

Question 9

eventually, a pt with ALS may require

Answer 9

• tracheostomy & ventilatory

Question 10

what is imp in pts with ALS

Answer 10

• ACP

Question 11

what is something that is often considered with pts with ALS

Answer 11

• MAiD