LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING PROGRAM

1ST SEMESTER FUNDAMENTALS

CLIENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

CHAPTER 49 - SENSORY ALTERATIONS

INTRODUCTION

The nurse’s role is to understand and help meet the needs of clients with sensory alterations, as well as to recognize clients most at risk for developing sensory problems. The nurse should be able to guide the client through the barriers created by sensory alterations and help the client find a meaningful way to live.

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

A. Theory

1. Define the key terms identified.

2. Differentiate between the processes or reception, perception, and reaction to sensory stimuli.

3. Discuss common causes and effects of sensory alterations.

4. State interventions for preventing sensory deprivation and controlling sensory overload.

5. Discuss ways to maintain a safe environment for clients with sensory deficits.

ASSIGNMENT

A.  Read Chapter 49- Potter & Perry, Critical Thinking Exercises # 1, 2, and Review Questions

B.  Study Guide for Chapter 49

  Chapter 49
Sensory Alterations

  Scientific Knowledge Base

  Normal sensation

Ø  Reception

•  Stimulation of receptor such as light, touch, or sound

Ø  Perception

•  Integration and interpretation of stimuli

Ø  Reaction

•  Only the most important stimuli will elicit a reaction

  Sensory Alterations

  Sensory deficits

Ø  Deficit in the normal function of sensory reception and perception

  Sensory deprivation

Ø  Inadequate quality or quantity of stimulation

  Sensory overload

Ø  Reception of multiple sensory stimuli

  Nursing Knowledge Base:
Factors Affecting Sensory Function

  Assessment

  Nursing Diagnosis and Planning

  After the assessment is completed, the diagnosis can be selected from the NANDA-I–approved list.

  Planning will identify client goals and outcomes.

  Implementation

  Health promotion

Ø  Screening

Ø  Preventive safety

Ø  Use of contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids

Ø  Promotion of meaningful stimuli

Ø  Creating a safe environment

  Acute Care

  Orientation to the environment

Ø  Address the client by name, place call light within reach, use nightlight, reduce clutter.

  Controlling stimuli

Ø  Reduce sensory overload.

Ø  Combine nursing activities.

Ø  Control extraneous noise.

  Restorative and Continuing Care

  Socialization

Ø  Communication

Ø  Physical contact

Ø  Mutual groups

  Promoting self-care

Ø  Increases self-esteem

Ø  Safety awareness

Evaluation

  The client is the only person who can tell you if sensory ability has improved as a result of nursing interventions.