The selected neurodegenerative disorder is schizophrenia, which is primarily manifested in a patient’s mood and behavior. It is a chronic progressive mental illness characterized by an increasing dissociation of cognitive functions with the formation of a kind of defect. In schizophrenia, the vast majority of symptoms and syndromes described in general psychopathology occur. Thus, it will be constructive to understand the key underlying elements linked with the clinical aspect of schizophrenia.
In terms of pathophysiology, the given disease is among the less known disorders. However, there is certain evidence that suggests the involvement of neurotransmitter dysregulation as the primary causal factor (Grace, 2016). For example, disruptions in the functional mechanism of dopamine neurons are associated with depression and schizophrenia (Grace, 2016). In the case of assessment, it is important to point out that there are a number of types of the disease, such as catatonic or paranoid. The only plausible approach is a psychiatric evaluation, which might involve mental health checks, personal history, and family discussions. According to NANDA, the simple form of schizophrenia is characterized by loss of interest, ambition, and volition, which leads to deterioration of interpersonal relationships and mental processes (“Nursing diagnosis for schizophrenia,” 2020). The nursing care plan includes an extensive list of steps, among which increasing a patient’s self-esteem, providing a systemic goal-based activity, and a safe environment are the most important ones (“Nursing diagnosis for schizophrenia,” 2020). Therefore, it is a complex issue, which requires the thorough involvement of specialists.
In conclusion, schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder, where affected people have difficulties interpreting the reality around them. Delusions and hallucinations are common among schizophrenic patients, which severely impairs their lives. It is critical to note that there is a wide range of types of the disease, which is why the assessments need to be complex and engage the families. Therefore, the nursing plan is also extensive, with an array of steps.
References
Grace, A. (2016). Dysregulation of the dopamine system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and depression. Nature Reviews: Neuroscience, 17, 524-532.
Nursing diagnosis for schizophrenia. (2020).