Patho-physiology
What neurotransmitter is deficient in Parkinson’s disease?
What is dopamine?
What is the hallmark resting tremor called?
What is a “pill-rolling” tremor?
Name one exercise beneficial for Parkinson’s patients.
What is walking, swimming, tai chi, yoga, or stretching?
Why should Parkinson’s patients take their meds on time?
To maintain steady symptom control and prevent “off” periods.
The loss of dopamine-producing neurons occurs in this area of the brain.
What is the substantia nigra?
Name two non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s.
What are depression, constipation, dementia, hallucinations, orthostatic hypotension, or sleep disturbance?
What is the best position for a patient with dysphagia to eat?
What is upright, 90 degrees?
What home modification can prevent falls?
Remove rugs, improve lighting, install grab bars.
What are Lewy bodies?
What are abnormal protein aggregates found in neurons of PD patients?
What is the mask-like facial expression called?
What is hypomimia?
What adaptive device can help with eating?
What are weighted utensils or plates?
Why should patients rise slowly from bed or chairs?
To prevent orthostatic hypotension
Name two pathways in the basal ganglia affected by dopamine loss.
What are the direct and indirect pathways?
Why are Parkinson’s patients at high risk for falls?
What is postural instability and shuffling gait?
What is the priority intervention if a patient has a wet cough during meals?
Stop feeding and assess for aspiration.
Name one support resource for Parkinson’s patients.
Support groups, physical therapy, occupational therapy.
Why do Parkinson’s patients have bradykinesia?
Loss of dopamine increases inhibition of movement through basal ganglia imbalance.
Why do Parkinson’s patients have bradykinesia?
Loss of dopamine increases inhibition of movement through basal ganglia imbalance.
How often should you turn a bedbound Parkinson’s patient?
Every 2 hours to prevent pressure injuries.
Why is exercise important even in advanced PD?
Maintains strength, flexibility, and reduces contractures and depression.