Understanding Dystonia

This course is designed to help create a better understanding of a little known neurological movement disorder called dystonia. What is dystonia? It is a complex and varied condition that can present, manifest and be treated in many different ways. This course will differentiate and define the key characteristics of dystonia, discuss the prevalence and explain how the disorder impacts those affected. Understanding traditional treatment guidelines and medication therapies will help nursing staff better care for and assist patients suffering from dystonia.

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Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  1. Define the clinical definition of dystonia and describe how it affects the physical posturing and movement of the patient. 
  2. Describe the neurological process that is believed to be responsible for causing Dystonia.
  3. Identify and describe the prevalence and patient demographic for those suffering from dystonia.
  4. Describe the diagnostic criteria and process required to receive a dystonia diagnosis.  
  5. Discuss and describe the role of genetics in the diagnostic process.
  6. Differentiate the different types of Dystonia and identify the clinical differences.
  7. Identify the different types of dystonia that are inherited.
  8. Discuss and describe the possible ages of onset for Dystonia and how that may affect progression and severity.
  9. Identify the different types of dystonia’s and the areas of the body they affect.
  10. Identify the different types of drug therapies used to treat dystonia, how they affect the brain and why they are commonly used.
  11. Explain the effects of dystonia and how it can affect a patient’s lifespan.
  12. Identify and discuss what patients are experiencing so that you can anticipate their needs and provide the best possible care.

Curriculum

Chapter 1: Dystonia

Chapter 2: Dystonia Classifications

Chapter 3: Diagnosing Dystonia

Chapter 4: The Most Common Dystonias

Chapter 5: Genetics

Chapter 6: Dystonia Treatment

Chapter 7: Is Dystonia Fatal?

Chapter 8: Dystonia's Impact on Quality of Life

Chapter 9: True Life Stories

Chapter 10: References

  • California Bill 241
  • Implicit Bias in Healthcare
  • What is Implicit Bias?
  • Implications of Implicit Bias in Healthcare
  • How to Reduce Implicit Bias

Price: $30.00

Contact Hours: 2.5

Course Author

Kevin Stansbury

Kevin Stansbury, MBA, BSN, BS, RN, CEN, VA-BC, is a Registered Nurse with over 25 years’ experience in the medical field including critical care, emergency medicine, and infusion therapy. He is currently living and working in the Central Valley of California. Kevin is a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Army where he served as a combat medic and nurse. He received several military decorations during his tours in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, including an Army Achievement Medal, an Army Commendation Medal, and the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal. Kevin also received his Expert Field Medical Badge while serving two tours in Korea.

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