Understanding Impaired Cognition Nursing Diagnosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Impaired cognition is a nursing diagnosis that refers to a decrease in the mental processes such as memory, perception, and reasoning, resulting in reduced ability to communicate, make decisions, and perform activities of daily living. It is commonly found in elderly patients but can affect people of any age. This article will explore the different causes, symptoms, and treatments of impaired cognition nursing diagnosis.
Causes of Impaired Cognition Nursing Diagnosis
Impaired cognition can be caused by a range of factors, including medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices. Common medical conditions that result in impaired cognition include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Additionally, certain medications such as sedatives, antidepressants, and antipsychotics can cause impaired cognitive functioning as a side effect. Alcohol and drug abuse, as well as poor nutrition, can also contribute to this diagnosis.
Symptoms of Impaired Cognition Nursing Diagnosis
The symptoms of impaired cognition nursing diagnosis may vary depending on the underlying cause, but common symptoms include difficulty with memory, confusion, disorientation, difficulty in problem-solving, decreased attention span, and poor judgment. The individual may also experience difficulty communicating, including difficulty in finding the right words, poor comprehension, and difficulty expressing themselves.
Treatments of Impaired Cognition Nursing Diagnosis
The treatment for impaired cognition nursing diagnosis largely depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treating the underlying medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, may improve or manage the symptoms of impaired cognition. Medications, including cognitive enhancers like Aricept and Namenda, may also be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of this diagnosis. Behavioral interventions, including cognitive rehabilitation, counseling, and occupational therapy, may also be used to help individuals improve their cognitive functioning. In severe cases, individuals may require supportive living accommodations, such as assisted living or memory care facilities.
Examples of Impaired Cognition Nursing Diagnosis
One example of impaired cognition nursing diagnosis is a patient with Alzheimer’s disease who experiences difficulty communicating with their caregivers or difficulty with memory and problem-solving. Another example is a stroke survivor who has trouble comprehending speech.
Conclusion
Impaired cognition nursing diagnosis is a common diagnosis among patients, especially seniors. It affects various aspects of life, including communication and decision-making. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of the diagnosis is critical in ensuring the well-being of the individual. Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause, and early intervention may prevent the condition from worsening.
