1. Define Parkinson’s disease.
Chronic, slow, progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the basal ganglia characterized by tremors at rest, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.
2. Describe the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease.
Role of DA producing neurons in the substantia nigra.
Imbalance of two neurotransmitters dopamine (DA) and acetylcholine (ACh).
3. Identify the etiology of Parkinson’s disease.
Possible causative factors of PD.
Other medical conditions with Parkinson-like symptoms.
4. State the incidence of Parkinson’s disease.
Age group most affected
Gender
5. Describe the clinical manifestations (motor and non-motor features) of Parkinson’s disease.
Primary:
Tremors
Rigidity
Akinesia/bradykinesia
Postural instability
Secondary:
Fine motor function problems
DysarthriaHypophonia
Masklike face
Fatigue and weakness
Autonomic manifestations
Cognitive impairments
Emotional lability
Sleep disturbance
6. Describe the stages of Parkinson’s disease.
Stages I-V
7. Understand the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
History and clinical findings
Rule out other disorders
Conventional diagnosis
8. Identify health problems in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Worsening of motor and nonmotor symptoms as the disease process progresses.
9. Describe nursing interventions used to promote adaptation in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
General principles and specific interventions
Team approach
Referrals
Education
Discharge planning
Community care and involvement
Nurse’s role
10. Understand nonpharmacological strategies to manage the signs and symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Exercise therapy
Speech therapy
Relaxation techniques
Self-care management
Balance nutrition
Strategies to prevent constipation, anxiety, pain, sleep disorders, and activities to improve cognition
Use of complementary therapies
11. Identify surgical procedures that may be implemented to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Thalamotomy
Pallidotomy
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Fetal-adrenal transplants
Stem cell transplants