During an assessment the nurse becomes concerned that a patient is demonstrating early manifestations of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. What findings did the nurse use to make this clinical determination?
Select all that apply.
1. foot drop
2. slurred speech
3. weak hip flexor muscles
4. bilateral weak hand grasps
5. fine muscle fasciculations of the hands
Correct Answer: 2, 4, 5
Muscle twitches or weakness in an extremity and slurred speech are common early manifestations. Fasciculations of involved muscles are common in the early stage of the disorder. With the loss of muscle innervation, the muscles atrophy, and paralysis results. Muscle mass decreases, and patients complain of progressive fatigue. Typically, the disease first affects the hands. Foot drop and weak hip flexor muscles may or may not be a manifestation of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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A) What was learned from this experience? B) Will this work the next time? C) What went wrong that I can change next time? D) How can I be sure this is the best method?