PSYC FPX 3500 assessment 3

Case Study

The case that is going to be analyzed is Case 1, where Norma Lauderback, an older lady, was at home with her husband, Floyd. Norma was washing dishes when she suddenly dropped a plate, and Floyd immediately came to her side. Norma complained of numbness in her face, and Floyd witnessed her losing her balance and helped her into a chair. Then, Floyd called 911. After the doctor came to the hospital, he did an evaluation, noting Norma’s dizziness, facial numbness, and one-sided weakness. These symptoms, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are indicators of a stroke (2022).

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

Norma exhibited three of the five major stroke symptoms outlined by the CDC, validating the likelihood of a stroke diagnosis. The symptoms can cause memory loss due to impaired brain function, oxygen loss, blockage of blood flow, and nerve damage typically associated with strokes.

FAST Acronym

The FAST acronym, as suggested by the CDC, assists in identifying stroke symptoms timely: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services (2022). Norma’s presentation is consistent with these signs.

PSYC FPX 3500 Assessment 3 Brain Injury Case Studies

Sources Supporting Diagnosis

A Journal of Neuroscience Nursing article brings to light stroke signs in women, like those experienced by Norma (Colsch & Lindseth, 2018). A Medicine (Baltimore) study discusses cerebral microbleeds that result in stroke-like presentations, which is also consistent with Norma’s diagnosis (Choi et al., 2018).

Research Methods

Both studies employed different research methods. The Journal of Neuroscience Nursing utilized online platforms to access literature on stroke symptoms, while Medicine (Baltimore) reviewed a patient with stroke symptoms similar to those of Norma but focused on the efficacy of treatment.

Treatment Options

Intravenous Thrombolysis with r-tPA is a viable treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke, with a massive effect on functional stroke outcomes (Marko et al., 2022).

Summary and Conclusion

Norma’s presentation is highly suggestive of a stroke diagnosis. Even though her heart disease history is not defined, her presentation aligns with the typical stroke presentation. Prophylactic treatment modalities like frequencies of r-tPA are encouraging alternatives for the treatment of stroke and prevention of recurrence.