The Journal of neuroscience nursing : journal of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses
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Computer-based interventions have been developed to improve cognitive performance after mild traumatic brain injury; however, a thorough evaluation of this body of research has not been addressed in the literature. ⋯ Overall, computer-based interventions seem promising as an approach to improve working memory in individuals with acquired brain injury. There is no evidence that currently available interventions are specific to mild traumatic brain injury. Well-designed research studies with adequate sample sizes are needed to assess the effect of computer-based interventions on cognitive performance after mild traumatic brain injury.
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Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a result of acute brain injury that has been well known for many decades. However, the evidence for management of PSH is almost entirely anecdotal in nature. We reviewed case reports or series of pharmacotherapy management of PSH. ⋯ However, a combination of medications from different classes seems the most effective approach in managing PSH symptoms. There is wide variability in clinical practice with regard to drug choices, dosing, and duration of therapy. Future research needs to be conducted using the new PSH assessment measure to appropriately apply drug management.
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External ventricular drains (EVDs) are commonly used to facilitate removal of cerebrospinal fluid in patients with neurologic dysfunction. Despite a high risk for infection (upward of 45%), many hospitals lack strict protocols for EVD placement and maintenance. In addition, EVD infections are typically not tracked with the same diligence as central-line catheter infections, because there are no widely accepted standards for routine management of EVDs. ⋯ The following terms were used in this search: EVD, externalized ventricular drains, EVD infections, EVD insertion, EVD Care and Maintenance, Nursing and EVDS. The following databases were utilized by each member of the interdisciplinary team to establish a state of the science on EVD management: American Association of Neurosurgical Surgeons, CINAHL, Cochrane, National Guidelines Clearinghouse, and PubMed. The following common EVD themes were identified: preinsertion hair removal and skin preparation, aseptic technique, catheter selection, monitoring of EVD insertion technique using a "bundle" approach, postinsertion dressing type and frequency of dressing changes, techniques for maintenance and cerebrospinal fluid sampling, duration of catheter placement, staff education/competence, and surveillance.
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This systematic review describes effects of body temperature alterations defined as fever, controlled normothermia, and spontaneous or induced hypothermia on outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults. ⋯ Setting a goal of normothermia, avoiding fever, and aggressively treating fever may be most important after TBI. Further research is needed to characterize the magnitude and duration of temperature alteration after TBI, determine if temperature alteration influences or predicts neurologic outcome, determine if rate of temperature change influences or predicts neurologic outcome, and compare controlled normothermia versus standard practice or hypothermia.
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This systematic review describes effects of body temperature alterations defined as fever, controlled normothermia, and spontaneous or induced hypothermia on outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults. ⋯ Setting a goal of normothermia, avoiding fever, and aggressively treating fever may be most important after TBI. Further research is needed to characterize the magnitude and duration of temperature alteration after TBI, determine if temperature alteration influences or predicts neurologic outcome, determine if rate of temperature change influences or predicts neurologic outcome, and compare controlled normothermia versus standard practice or hypothermia.