Care of the Neurological Patient

Neurological conditions (stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease etc.) account for the third largest number of patient admissions within the UK (after heart disease and cancer). Very little attention or priority is given to the needs of these patients and many are nursed outside specialist units (acute neurology cases account for 20% of admissions to general medical wards). This book aims to help students and registered nurses develop their skills in caring for patients with ongoing neurological disorders. Care of the Neurological Patient focuses on practical care in a non-specialist setting, using the '12 Activities of Living' model of nursing. The initial chapter addresses assessment and prioritisation of care needs and subsequent chapters focus on specific patient needs in each of the twelve areas. Topics include swallowing and elimination problems, sensory and perceptual problems, chronic pain and fatigue, depression, cognitive and communication problems, mobility problems and spasticity. It Includes practical evidence-based guidelines for managing existing problems and preventing complications.