Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Academic Term
Summer 2020
Document Type
Project
Course Number
NURS 6810
Course Name
Advanced Pathophysiology
Professor’s Name
Dr. John Chovan
Keywords
Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia, Signs and symptoms, Etiology, DSMV Criteria, Significance of Pathophysiology, Implications to Nursing Care
Subject Categories
Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing
Abstract
This poster presents the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. This topic was selected because it helps to understand the pathophysiology of the condition as well as the clinical significance of the condition. Schizophrenia is a condition that is not well known and there are misconceptions in the community about the condition. I believe by understanding its etiology, pathophysiology, and presenting signs and symptoms; I will be able to give the best nursing care to my patients. Patients with the condition exhibit five major symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, disorganized, disorganised speech or thinking, and inability to function normally. Under DSM V diagnosis criteria, a patient must meet two of the following conditions for a period of one month, including delusions, hallucinations, disorganised speech, or negative symptoms. The aetiology of the condition is not well known but physical, genetic, psychological, and environmental factors play a role. The underlying pathophysiology of schizophrenia involves dysregulation of different pathways in the brain function. The pathway involves abnormalities in neurotransmission with either excess or deficiency in neurotransmissions. There are three main theories that explain the pathophysiology including dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. Understanding the pathophysiology has a number of significances. One, it helps to gain an insight and important knowledge about how the condition affects the body and how it develops with time. Two, it provides the basis for developing appropriate medication that targets the exact part of the brain or a step in its etiology. Three, it provides information that helps in formulation of the best nursing care plan and interventions for the patients. Implications of for nursing care is that nurses must engage in developing trust and communication with such patients and they must also develop a maintenance treatment plan with psychotic medications as well as psychosocial therapy.
Recommended Citation
Onuchukwu, Chimezie, "Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia" (2020). Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN). 427.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_msn/427