A nurse is assessing a client who has Parkinson’s disease. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
A.
Pruritus
B.
Hypertension
C.
Bradykinesia
D.
Xerostomia
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Bradykinesia.
Bradykinesia is a hallmark symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and is characterized by slowness of movement. It is a motor symptom that significantly impairs a person’s ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, writing, or even eating. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, a region of the brain that controls movement. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter essential for smooth, coordinated muscle movements, and its depletion leads to the motor symptoms of PD.
Bradykinesia presents as difficulty in initiating movements, as well as a general reduction in movement speed and amplitude. Clients may also experience episodes of freezing, where they feel temporarily unable to move. This symptom, along with tremors at rest and muscle rigidity, forms the classic triad of Parkinson’s disease.
Other manifestations of Parkinson’s disease:
- Resting tremors: Involuntary shaking, often starting in the hands or fingers, which may worsen when at rest.
- Muscle rigidity: Stiffness of muscles, causing discomfort and resistance to movement.
- Postural instability: Difficulty with balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls.
- Gait abnormalities: Short, shuffling steps, and difficulty turning.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Pruritus (itching) is not associated with Parkinson’s disease. This is typically related to dermatologic conditions or allergic reactions.
- B. Hypertension is not a direct manifestation of Parkinson’s disease. While blood pressure irregularities can occur, hypertension is not a primary symptom.
- D. Xerostomia (dry mouth) may be a side effect of medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease, but it is not a core feature of the condition itself.
Bradykinesia, along with other motor symptoms, significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, requiring careful management and rehabilitation strategies.