Introduction

Figure 17.1 The structure and function of the human nervous system begins in the brain and spinal cord. The image shows a lumbar puncture, a procedure used to identify infections in the cerebral spinal fluid. (credit: modification of work from Anatomy and Physiology 2e. attribution: Copyright Rice University, OpenStax, under CC BY 4.0 license)

Chapter Outline

17.1 Intracranial Pressure Changes

17.2 Acute Disorders of the Nervous System

17.3 Chronic Disorders of the Nervous System

17.4 Major Neurocognitive Disorder and Neurodegenerative Diseases

17.5 Seizures

17.6 Polyneuropathy

17.7 Chronic Pain Disorders

17.8 Spinal Disorders

17.9 Neurological Injuries

The body’s communication and response systems are comprised of trillions of neurons, and billions of these are within the brain. When these neurons function properly, they route signals to the brain, enabling the brain and nervous system to support the body’s performance, including activities such as breathing, walking, and reading this textbook.

Sometimes, neurons are injured, which may negatively affect the brain’s ability to function. This chapter discusses disorders and diseases that injure neurons and explores how this affects the brain and the body. For patients who experience any of these conditions, nurses provide essential services as caregivers and advocates. If patients must learn to live with their disease or condition, nurses provide them with information and support to help them make this adjustment. Regardless of the patient’s disease or condition, nurses should keep in mind that they must always collaborate and communicate effectively with the patient’s health-care team. This may include physicians, neurologists, surgeons, therapists, dieticians, pharmacists, and other health-care professionals. As appropriate, nurses should work with these team members and use interdisciplinary approaches to develop a comprehensive health-care treatment plan. Working with the health-care team, nurses should monitor each patient and address changes in the patient’s care plan as needed.