Overview of Schizophrenia | Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by a breakdown of thought processes and by poor emotional responsiveness. It most commonly manifests itself as auditory hallucinations, paranoid or bizarre delusions, or disorganized speech and thinking, and it is accompanied by significant social or occupational dysfunction. The onset of symptoms typically occurs in young adulthood, with a global lifetime prevalence of about 0.3–0.7%. Diagnosis is based on observed behavior and the patient's reported experiences. (Wikipedia.org)
The exact cause of schizophrenia is not known. There is a familial tendency to the disease, and genes have been identified that are associated with the disease.
Dysfunction of the neurotransmitter dopamine seems to be partially responsible for the development of the symptoms of psychosis associated with schizophrenia. NMDA receptors may also be involved in the disease.
Prognosis of Schizophrenia | Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
Patients with schizophrenia typically need long-term medication to control symptoms. Medication compliance can be difficult for some patients, whether due to accessibility of medications, side effects, symptoms of disease, or desire not to take daily medication. Symptom recurrence is likely.
Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia| Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
- Impairment in reality testing
- Flat affect
- Disorganized speech
- Disorganized thought process
- Unusual behavior
- Delusions
- Auditory hallucinations
Interpreting Test Result of Schizophrenia| Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
- Diagnostic test normal.
Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia: Treatment of Schizophrenia
Treatment of Schizophrenia | Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
- Antipsychotic medications: clozapine, aripiprazole, ziprasidone, loxapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, thiothixene.
- Psychotherapy.
- Behavioral therapy.
- Structured environment.
Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia and Nursing Interventions
Most Common Nursing Diagnosis for Schizophrenia
- Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome
- Disturbed thought process
- Disturbed auditory sensory perception
Nursing Interventions for Schizophrenia
- Monitor medication intake.
- Discuss patient response to therapy.
- Discuss importance of medication compliance.
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