Brain & Spinal Cord
What is the main control centre of the nervous system?
The brain
How many pairs of cranial nerves do humans have?
12
Name one intervention that helps prevent falls in an older adult with impaired vision.
Keep walkways clear, provide adequate lighting, ensure glasses are available, or place frequently used items within reach.
Which neurotransmitter is reduced in Parkinson’s disease?
Dopamine.
Which sensory organ is responsible for vision?
The eye.
Which part of the brain controls balance, coordination, and posture?
The cerebellum
Which cranial nerve is responsible for the sense of smell?
Cranial nerve I, the olfactory nerve.
Why should a nurse assess a patient’s level of consciousness?
Changes in consciousness can indicate neurological deterioration or another serious health problem.
Name two common motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Any two of the following: resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), or postural instability.
What is presbycusis?
Age-related hearing loss, commonly affecting the ability to hear high-frequency sounds.
Which part of the brain regulates vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure?
The brainstem, particularly the medulla oblongata.
Which cranial nerve controls facial expressions, such as smiling and frowning?
Cranial nerve VII, the facial nerve.
A resident with swallowing difficulties following a stroke begins coughing while eating. What should the nurse do first?
Stop feeding immediately, assess the resident’s breathing and airway, and follow emergency procedures if needed. Report the change and ensure swallowing safety is reassessed before oral intake resumes.
What does bradykinesia mean?
Slowness of movement, often with difficulty initiating or performing movements.
What is the difference between cataracts and glaucoma?
Cataracts involve clouding of the eye's lens. Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure.
What is the difference between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system?
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system consists of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Which cranial nerve is assessed when a nurse asks a patient to stick out their tongue?
Cranial nerve XII, the hypoglossal nerve.
Why is it important to assess for new confusion in an older adult rather than automatically attributing it to dementia or aging?
New confusion may indicate delirium caused by an acute problem, such as infection, medication effects, hypoxia, or metabolic changes, and requires prompt assessment.
Why is fall prevention especially important for a patient with Parkinson’s disease?
Tremors, impaired balance, rigidity, and slow movement can increase the risk of falls and injury.
Name two nursing interventions that can help an older adult with hearing impairment communicate more effectively.
Face the patient while speaking, reduce background noise, speak clearly without shouting, and check that hearing aids are available and working. Any two earn full points.
An older adult suddenly develops difficulty speaking and weakness on one side of the body. Which part of the nervous system may be affected, and why is this an emergency?
The brain may be affected by a stroke. This is an emergency because brain tissue can be damaged when its blood supply is interrupted or bleeding occurs. Immediate emergency assessment is required.
A patient has difficulty swallowing and a hoarse voice. Which cranial nerves may be involved?
Cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus), which contribute to swallowing and related throat functions.
A resident suddenly develops facial drooping and arm weakness during your shift. As an LPN, what are your immediate priorities?
Activate the emergency response, assess airway, breathing, and circulation within your training, note the onset or last-known-well time, stay with the resident, and promptly communicate findings. Do not give food, fluids, or oral medication until swallowing safety has been assessed.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease has a scheduled levodopa dose. Why is it important to administer the medication at the prescribed time?
Consistent timing helps maintain symptom control and mobility. Delayed or missed doses can worsen symptoms and interfere with daily functioning.
An older adult suddenly loses vision in one eye. Should the nurse assume this is a normal part of aging?
No. Sudden vision loss is an emergency and requires immediate assessment because it may indicate a serious eye or vascular condition.