6.1: Cognitive Impairments Introduction

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Ernstmeyer & Christman (Eds.)
Chippewa Valley Technical College via OpenRN

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Learning Objectives

Identify factors related to cognitive impairments across the life span
Demonstrate respect for the dignity of the patient with a cognitive impairment
Collect data to identify patients experiencing alterations in cognition
Include adaptations to the environment to maintain safety for the patient with impaired cognition
Incorporate nursing strategies to maximize cognitive functioning
Outline nursing interventions for specific cognitive disorders
Outline resources for patients with a cognitive impairment and their family members or caregivers
Identify evidence-based practices in the care of cognitively impaired patients

Cognition is the term used to describe our ability to think. As humans, we are continually receiving input from the world around us and making decisions about how to respond. Some of these decisions are made with awareness, while others are reflexive responses. Infants develop cognitively based on their experiences with their environment. Cognitive processes continue to develop throughout childhood, adolescence, and adulthood as we learn how to adapt and use knowledge to solve problems and reach desired outcomes.

Many factors can influence an individual’s continuously-evolving cognitive function from fetal development through adulthood. For example, diseases and health conditions can impair a person’s cognitive development and functioning during childhood and beyond. Impaired ability to think and make decisions can be temporarily affected by things such as infection, alcohol, drugs and medications, poor oxygenation, stress, or grief. Sensory deficits and sensory overload can also affect the ability to process information. (See the “Sensory Impairments” chapter for more information on this topic.)

Nurses monitor for changes in mental status and report them to health care providers to assist in the diagnosis and treatment for underlying causes of impairment. This chapter will review cognitive development, as well as common acute and chronic cognitive impairments in adults.