Introduction

Figure 26.1 Nurses guide patients through cognitive exercises in order to assess their neurological health. (credit: “NMCSD recognizes traumatic brain injury month” by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Luke Cunningham/Flickr, Public Domain)

Chapter Outline

26.1 Structure and Function

26.2 Physical Assessment

26.3 Recognizing Common Neurological Disorders

The neurological system is intricate and complex, and it affects all body functions. Nurses may encounter an altered functioning neurological system in patients among various practice settings. Neurological disorders may occur in anyone at any time and vary from mild to life-threatening. Therefore, it is essential for nurses to understand the neurological system to adequately assess its proper functioning as well as the nursing implications and interventions related to diagnosis and treatment.