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