Is the sudden development of neurologic deficit due to an abrupt severe decrease in cerebral circulation by either a thrombus, embolus or hemorrhage which causes a cerebral infarct, also called stroke.

Risk Factor:

• Hypertension
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Arterioscleroses
• Peripheral Vascular Disease
• Plegia - paralysis

Symptoms:

• Symptoms depend upon the location of the infarct
• Aphasia

• Muscular weakness that may lead to paralysis
• Ataxia (staggering gait)
• Nuchal rigidity
• Perceptual deficit
• Emotional liability

Management:

1. Monitor client’s neurological status.
2. Do not stimulate cough.
3. Give passive exercises.
4. Decrease environmental stimuli.
5. Help client feed self as needed, encourage self help.
6. Provide adequate fluids to maintain sufficient output.
7. Give small frequent feeding as indicated.
8. Prevent deformities, observe proper positioning.
9. Help speech therapist as needed.
10. Assist physical therapist as need.