Exam 32: Degenerative Diseases of the Central Nervous System: Understanding and Management

When working with individuals who would be classified as Level 4 on the Allen cognitive levels, what should the OTA take into consideration regarding therapy?

An OTA is working with a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The client is complaining of lower extremity stiffness in the morning that makes it difficult to complete ADL tasks. What type of equipment should the OTA recommend to this client?

A client diagnosed with ALS has to decide whether to utilize a tracheostomy and mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing issues. The client may need to be placed in a skilled nursing facility because his spouse is working and they cannot afford 24-hour in-home care. What should be taken into consideration when making this decision?

An OTA is working with a client who is experiencing changes in personality, including disinhibition and anger. This client currently requires a very structured daily routine due to impaired insight and memory. In addition, this client is demonstrating motor impairments, including chorea, ataxia, and poor balance. What disorder is this individual most likely diagnosed with?

An OTA is doing an initial interview with a client diagnosed with dementia. When speaking with the client and caregiver, information is revealed that the client has forgotten several appointments, including the current therapy appointment, and is requiring cueing from family members. The client also has been misplacing her glasses and dentures. Which level on the Global Deterioration Scale would she be functioning at?

An OTA is working with a client diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which intervention would be most beneficial to a client who is in the mild stage of the disease?

An OTA is meeting with a support group for caregivers of individuals with progressive diseases. What should the OTA include in her presentation to help the caregivers support their loved ones?

An OT practitioner is working with a client diagnosed with ALS at the outpatient ALS clinic. The client is currently walking with a cane but is transitioning to use of a rollator walker for balance needs. What should the OT practitioner discuss with the client about future progression of the disease as it affects occupations?

An OTA is working with a client diagnosed with Huntington's disease. Which interventions would be most meaningful to a client who is in the mid-stage of the disease?

An OTA is working with a client diagnosed after a flare-up of a progressive degenerative disease of the central nervous system. This client is experiencing fatigue in her upper and lower extremities and is experiencing depression because she is very sensitive to heat and is no longer able to participate in her beloved hobby of gardening. What condition is this individual most likely diagnosed with?