AMNESIA

Definition

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It is an inability to remember events for a period of time, often due to brain injury, illness or the effects of drugs and alcohol.

Causes

Brain or head injury

Certain drugs and alcohol

Traumatic events

Conditions like Alzhemer's disease

Pathopysiology

Damage to the brain structures that forms the limbic system which controls emotions and memories.

structures include thalamus, which lies deep within center of the brain, and hippocampal formations, which are situated within the temporal lobes of the brain

Signs and symptoms

Difficulty learning new information

Difficulty in remembering past events

False memories (Confabulation)

Confusion and disorientation

Diagnostic tests

Imaging tests including MRI and CT SCAN

Blood tests to check infection

Electroencephalogram

Treatment

Occupational therapy

Technology assistance e.g smartphone to be used to remind them about important events or to take medication

Medication supplements e.g replacing vitamins and providing proper nutrition

Nursing interventions

Encourage expression of feelings

Assist with memory defficit

Reminisce events with the client

Encourage group participation

Encourage independence