Question

As its name indicates, the central nervous system is central to the body's structure and function. It contains the brain and spinal cord, and the CNS controls all basic bodily functions and the body’s response to external changes. The CNS can be thought of as the coordinator of the body. From the central nervous system, 43 pairs of nerves originate to begin the peripheral nervous system (PNS). These nerves outside the brain and spinal cord divide and branch out as a network to every organ and structure of the body. The peripheral nervous system receives information in the form of sensory input to send back to the CNS and instructions from the CNS to send to the muscles and glands of the body. For example, temperature receptors in the skin send the signal through the nerves of the PNS that the environment is hot, and then the CNS sends instructions back through the PNS to the sudoriferous glands to produce sweat. The PNS has the vital role of connecting the CNS to the rest of the body. It can also be divided into different branches. You are a medical assistant at an assisted living facility. One of your residents, Mrs. Thompson, seems to be experiencing more confusion than normal. You have noticed a change in her mood recently, and she is having difficulty with her daily tasks. What nervous system condition would her doctor MOST LIKELY screen her for first? How could you best support Mrs. Thompson as her medical assistant?

Write 4 simple sentences in your own words.

Answer 1

The doctor would most likely screen Mrs. Thompson for dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
I can support her by watching for changes in her thinking and mood and telling the nurse or doctor right away.
I can help with daily tasks like dressing, bathing, and taking medicines.
I can also keep her calm by using a gentle tone, keeping a routine, and encouraging family visits.