Question

The nurse is caring for a patient that had a craniotomy. In planning long-term care for the patient, what must the nurse include when teaching the patient, family, and caregiver?

a) Seizure disorders may occur in weeks or months.
b) The family will be unable to cope with role reversals.
c) There are often residual changes in personality and cognition.
d) Referrals will be made to eliminate residual deficits from the damage.

Answer 1

Long-term care after a craniotomy involves teaching about the potential for seizure disorders, the likelihood of personality and cognitive changes, and the use of referrals to address residual deficits. Education on symptom monitoring is also key.

Step-by-step explanation:

Long-term care after a craniotomy requires comprehensive planning and education for the patient, family, and caregivers. This should include information that:

• Seizure disorders may develop or worsen in the weeks to months following surgery, and proper management with medications and monitoring may be necessary.
• Patient personality and cognitive changes are common, and adjustments in the home and lifestyle may be required to accommodate residual changes.
• Referrals to rehabilitation services will be provided, aiming to reduce residual deficits and enhance recovery, although some deficits may be permanent.

Education on monitoring for signs of complications such as increased confusion, changes in movement or speech, or new neurological deficits is also vital. In all cases, a supportive and adaptive approach is necessary for both the patient and those around them.