Question

The chart indicates that a client has expressive aphasia following a stroke. The nurse understands that the client will have difficulty with: A. Speaking and writing B. Comprehending spoken words C. Carrying out purposeful motor activity D. Recognizing and using an object correctly

Short answer

A: Speaking and writing B: Comprehending spoken words C: Carrying out purposeful motor activity D: Recognizing and using an object correctly Answer: A: Speaking and writing

Step-by-step solution

Understand Expressive Aphasia

Expressive aphasia is a type of language disorder caused by damage to the brain (usually from a stroke) that affects a person's ability to produce spoken or written language. It does not affect the comprehension of spoken language, their ability to carry out purposeful motor activities or recognize and use objects properly. So, we should look for an option that relates to speaking and writing difficulties.

Check Option A

Option A states that the client will have difficulty with speaking and writing. Since expressive aphasia affects communication, specifically the ability to produce spoken and written language, this option is in line with the characteristics of expressive aphasia.

Check Option B

Option B states that the client will have difficulty with comprehending spoken words. Expressive aphasia doesn't affect the comprehension of spoken language. So, this option is not correct.

Check Option C

Option C states that the client will have difficulty with carrying out purposeful motor activity. Motor activities are not affected by expressive aphasia, which is a language disorder. So, this option doesn't align with the characteristics of expressive aphasia.

Check Option D

Option D states that the client will have difficulty with recognizing and using an object correctly. Recognizing and using objects are not related to expressive aphasia, which is a language disorder. So, this option is not correct.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis of all the options, option A accurately describes the difficulties the client will face due to expressive aphasia. The correct answer is A: Speaking and writing.

Key concepts

Language Disorders

Language disorders involve communication difficulties due to changes or damages in the brain. These problems can affect speaking, writing, understanding, or even reading. Expressive aphasia is one common type of language disorder. It is often caused by brain damage from events like strokes.
Expressive aphasia mainly affects a person’s ability to communicate through speaking and writing. Unlike some other language disorders, it does not impact understanding spoken or written language.

• Types of Language Disorders:
  • Receptive Disorders: These affect understanding of language.
  • Expressive Disorders: These affect the ability to express language, like speaking or writing.
  • Mixed Receptive-Expressive Disorders: These affect both understanding and expression of language.

People with language disorders, such as expressive aphasia, might struggle to find words or make sentences. They may know what they want to say but can't articulate it as intended.

Stroke Effects

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes, leading to various effects based on the stroke’s location and severity.
When a stroke damages parts of the brain associated with language, it may result in expressive aphasia.

• Common Effects of Stroke:
  • Physical Impairments: Includes paralysis, loss of muscle movement, or numbness.
  • Cognitive Challenges: Difficulty in processing information or performing certain mental tasks.
  • Language Problems: Issues like expressive or receptive aphasia, impacting communication.

Recovery and rehabilitation often depend on the amount of brain damage and how quickly care was received. Speech and language therapy can significantly help people recover from or manage aphasia.

Communication Challenges

People with expressive aphasia face unique communication challenges. These difficulties often focus on the expression of language, making it hard to speak or write fluently.
They might know what they want to say but have trouble expressing it in words.

• Common Challenges:
  • Word Finding: Struggling to think of the right word or name objects.
  • Speaking: Difficulty forming sentences or speaking fluently.
  • Writing: Problems in producing written language clearly or meaningfully.

Despite these challenges, comprehension usually remains intact, allowing individuals to understand others. This means they may nod, react, or even follow instructions without issues. Using creative communication methods, such as drawing or using gestures, can help express themselves better.

Nursing Education

Nursing education plays a critical role in understanding and managing conditions like expressive aphasia. Nurses are on the front lines, helping stroke patients navigate their recovery process. Understanding language disorders, especially expressive aphasia, enables nurses to communicate effectively and provide optimal care.

• Nursing Responsibilities Include:
  • Observation: Monitoring patient progress and changes in communication abilities.
  • Support: Encouraging and facilitating communication through various methods.
  • Education: Teaching patients' families about aphasia to foster understanding and support.

By emphasizing practical skills and compassionate care, nursing education prepares nurses to assist patients in overcoming pervasive communication barriers. Continuous education ensures that nurses remain informed about the best strategies and tools to aid in recovery.