- Identify the most common degenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS).
- Describe symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
- Explain the neurochemical basis for Parkinson’s disease, focusing on the roles of dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain.
- Describe the nurse’s role in the pharmacological management of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
- For each of the drug classes listed in Drugs at a Glance, know representative drug examples, and explain their mechanisms of action, primary action, and important adverse effects.
- Describe symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and explain theories about why these symptoms develop.
- Explain the goals of pharmacotherapy for Alzheimer’s disease and the efficacy of existing medications.
- Categorize drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease based on their classification and mechanism of action.
- Use the Nursing Process to care for clients receiving drug therapy for degenerative diseases of the CNS.
