Question

A 70-year-old male who is recovering from a stroke exhibits signs of unilateral neglect. Which behavior is suggestive of unilateral neglect? A. The client is observed shaving only one side of his face. B. The client is unable to distinguish between two tactile stimuli presented simultaneously. C. The client is unable to complete a range of vision without turning his head side to side. D. The client is unable to carry out cognitive and motor activity at the same time.

Short answer

A. The client is observed shaving only one side of his face.

Step-by-step solution

Understand unilateral neglect

Unilateral neglect is a neuropsychological condition in which an individual fails to attend or respond to stimuli presented on one side of their personal, peripersonal, or extrapersonal space. This condition is often caused by a stroke or brain injury that affects the right parietal lobe, leading to neglect of the left side of space.

Evaluate the given behaviors

We need to identify the behavior most suggestive of unilateral neglect among the given options. Let's analyze each option: A. The client is observed shaving only one side of his face: This behavior shows the patient is neglecting a specific side of their personal space, which is indicative of unilateral neglect. B. The client is unable to distinguish between two tactile stimuli presented simultaneously: This condition, known as tactile extinction, is related to sensory processing and is not directly indicative of unilateral neglect. C. The client is unable to complete a range of vision without turning his head side to side: This description seems to illustrate a limited field of vision but does not provide clear evidence of neglecting one side of space. D. The client is unable to carry out cognitive and motor activity at the same time: This behavior could be associated with general cognitive or motor difficulties but is not specifically suggestive of unilateral neglect.

Choose the correct behavior

Based on our analysis, the most appropriate behavior indicative of unilateral neglect in this case is: A. The client is observed shaving only one side of his face.

Key concepts

Stroke Recovery

Stroke recovery is a multifaceted process that involves regaining lost functions and relearning skills. The brain's plasticity allows for some degree of recovery after a stroke, with the potential for neurons to form new connections. Rehabilitation, often starting in the hospital and continuing at home or a rehab center, can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

During the recovery phase, survivors might face numerous challenges that include motor deficits, communication problems, and cognitive impairments. Each recovery journey is unique and may require a comprehensive, tailored approach. Strategies such as repetitive task-specific practice, constraint-induced movement therapy, and medication for spasticity may be employed to improve function.

Early intervention is critical in recovering post-stroke, as the first few months are typically when the most significant improvements occur. Patients are encouraged to remain active and participate in their rehabilitation to maximize recovery outcomes.

Neuropsychological Conditions

Neuropsychological conditions affect cognitive and behavioral functions and are often the result of brain injury or neurological diseases. These conditions encompass a wide range of cognitive impairments, including memory loss, attention deficits, and executive dysfunction.

Conditions such as unilateral neglect fall within the spectrum of neuropsychological disorders. They exemplify how specific brain damage, like that resulting from a stroke, can lead to selective deficits in processing and responding to environmental stimuli. The right parietal lobe is commonly associated with spatial awareness and attention. Damage to this area may result in unilateral neglect, where an individual may seem unaware of objects or even their own body parts on the opposite side of the lesion.

Diagnosis of such conditions requires a detailed examination, often involving neuropsychological assessments that measure various aspects of cognition. Treatment and management strategies are then tailored to the individual's specific needs and may include cognitive rehabilitation therapies.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy (OT) is a crucial component in dealing with the symptoms of neuropsychological conditions, such as unilateral neglect, especially after a stroke. OT helps individuals regain independence in all areas of their lives, focusing on fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and daily living activities.

For someone experiencing unilateral neglect, occupational therapists would design interventions aimed at increasing awareness of the neglected side. Techniques might include using visual cues, practicing scanning techniques, and engaging in activities that require attention to both sides of the body and space. Occupational therapists may also suggest environmental adaptations to enhance safety and independence.

OT is highly personalized, with therapists working one-on-one with patients to set goals and work on specific tasks that are meaningful to the individual. Integrating family and caregivers into therapy sessions can also be beneficial, as they can learn strategies to help their loved ones in everyday situations.