ALS and Nursing Care

What is the progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord?

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

• Parkinson's Disease

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Alzheimer's Disease

Which symptoms are typically associated with the progression of ALS?

• Muscle weakness and atrophy

• Fever and chills

• Headache and nausea

• Rash and itching

Identify key nursing interventions for patients with ALS. What should these interventions focus on?

• Improving mobility and independence

• Enhancing communication abilities

• Managing respiratory function

• All of the above

What is the role of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes in ALS management?

• To provide nutritional support

• To assist in breathing

• To monitor heart rate

• To improve mobility

Review the indications for a tracheostomy in ALS patients. Why is it important?

• To improve breathing and prolong life

• To enhance speech capabilities

• To increase mobility

• To improve digestion

What are the components of tracheostomy care?

• Cleaning the stoma and tube, suctioning, and changing dressings

• Administering medication and monitoring blood pressure

• Performing CPR and using a defibrillator

• Applying bandages and using crutches

What are the current legal criteria and safeguards for MAiD in Ontario?

• MAiD in Ontario requires a written request signed by two independent witnesses.

• MAiD in Ontario requires approval from a court judge.

• MAiD in Ontario is only available to individuals under 18 years of age.

• MAiD in Ontario requires a diagnosis of a terminal illness.

Differentiate between the two types of MAiD: clinician-administered and self-administered.

• Clinician-administered MAiD involves a healthcare professional administering the medication, while self-administered MAiD involves the patient taking the medication themselves.

• Clinician-administered MAiD involves the patient taking the medication themselves, while self-administered MAiD involves a healthcare professional administering the medication.

• Both types of MAiD involve the patient taking the medication themselves.

• Both types of MAiD involve a healthcare professional administering the medication.

Consider the emotional, psychological, and existential challenges faced by an individual with ALS who is considering MAiD. Reflect on the patient's motivations for seeking MAiD.

• Emotional challenges include fear and anxiety about the future.

• Psychological challenges involve coping with loss of autonomy.

• Existential challenges relate to finding meaning in life despite the illness.

• All of the above.

Emphasize the importance of patient autonomy, dignity, and the right to make informed decisions about end-of-life care.

• Patient autonomy and dignity are crucial in end-of-life care decisions.

• End-of-life care decisions should be made solely by healthcare providers.

• Patient autonomy is not important in end-of-life care.

• Dignity is irrelevant in end-of-life care decisions.