The nurse is caring for a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). What is the nurse's primary focus of care?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that leads to muscle weakness and atrophy. As the disease progresses, patients become unable to swallow, speak, and breathe due to the failure of the muscles responsible for these functions. Therefore, the nurse's primary focus of care is respiratory support to ensure adequate oxygenation and managing secretions to prevent aspiration. Pain management and ROM exercises may be important, but they are not the primary focus of care for ALS. Administering immunosuppressants is not indicated for ALS. Gastrostomy feedings may be necessary when the patient is unable to swallow, but it is not the primary focus of care.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral