Pathophysiology

There is a deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to  Medimap

the tissues of the brain. If the arteries become blocked,
autoregulatory mechanisms help maintain cerebral
circulation until collateral circulation develops to deliver
blood to the affected area. If the compensatory
mechanisms become overworked or cerebral blood flow
remainsimpaired for more than few minutes, oxygen
deprivation leads to infarction of brain tissue. The brain
cells cease to function because they can neither store
glucose or glycogen for use nor engage in anaerobic
metabolism.
Signs and Symptoms Diagnostic Tests
Unilateral limb weakness Carotid ultrasound – to detect carotid stenosis
Speech difficulties CT Scan – to determine cause and location of stroke
Numdness on one side Cerebranangiography – to determine extent of
Headache Cerebrovascular accident cerebrovacular insufficiency
Vision disturbance PET, MRI may be done to localize ischemic damage
Dizziness
Anxiety
Altered level of consciousness
Nursing Intervention
Treatment Maintain patent airway oxygenation
Monitoring and support of vital functions Check vital signs and neurologic status
Prevention of decubitus ulcers, thrombosis and pneumonia Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance
Rehabilitation Ensure adequate nutrition
Physical therapy Manage GI problems
Occupational therapy Position the patient and align his extremities correctly
Gait training to improve ambulation Assist the patient with exercise
Cognitive therapy to improve memory Assess for voluntary or involuntary movements tone of muscles,
Speech therapy presence of deep tendon reflexes
Drugs Monitor bladder and bowel function
Anticoagulant Give medications as ordered
Antihyperensive Establish and maintain communication with the patient
Diuretics Provide psychological support
Anticonvulsants
Long term aaspirin to prevent future stroke
Surgery
Evacuation of hematoma or clot
Placement of intracranial pressure monitor
Endarterectomy to remove atherosclerotic plaques