Fundamentals of Nursing: Patient Movement, Sensory Health, and Sleep

In this episode, we cover key nursing concepts around activity and exercise, sensory alterations, and sleep. First, we explore the crucial roles the musculoskeletal and nervous systems play in movement, and how body alignment and joint mobility are influenced by both physiological and pathological factors. We’ll also discuss the benefits of exercise on physical and mental well-being, how to plan exercise programs for patients across different life stages, and assess mobility and activity tolerance.Next, we focus on sensory alterations. Learn how sensory function affects overall wellness and how sensory processes—like reception and perception—impact daily life. We’ll dive into common sensory changes with aging and explore nursing interventions to prevent sensory deprivation and overload.Finally, we tackle the importance of sleep, explaining the sleep-wake cycle, sleep stages, and the impact of sleep on biological functions. We’ll compare sleep requirements across age groups, identify factors that influence sleep, and discuss interventions for common sleep disorders to help patients maintain healthy sleep patterns. Whether you’re working with patients on mobility, sensory health, or sleep improvements, this episode offers vital strategies for nursing practice.All information in this podcast is sourced from ATI and the 2023 edition of Fundamentals of Nursing by Taylor.🩺 For Anyone About to Start Core – Stuff That Actually Helped MeStarting core can be overwhelming, so I wanted to share a list of things I got that I’ve actually used throughout the program. None of this is required. Clinical EssentialsHand sanitizer (always keep one on you) https://amzn.to/4rgy62XPenlight (neuro checks, pupil assessments) https://amzn.to/4qzr0GEBadge SetupStudent nurse badge (vertical) https://amzn.to/4qBMLFLBadge reference cards (vertical) https://amzn.to/4qF5wblStudent nurse badge (horizontal) https://amzn.to/4jZFIV2Badge reference cards (horizontal) https://amzn.to/4sWxcdkClinical ToolsFoldable clipboard (absolute must for clinicals) https://amzn.to/4jUwvNyPen/pencil combo https://amzn.to/4k4ZcaYClinical report notepad https://amzn.to/3ZxaET2Mini sharpies https://amzn.to/4bXP5CqMini highlighters https://amzn.to/4pUp9LDStethoscopeLittmann stethoscope (used every semester) https://amzn.to/4reKtMRStudy HelpLevel Up RN flashcards set (great for quick reviews)https://amzn.to/4qJ3CXoEveryone has different preferences, but these items stayed useful for me from the start of core through the program. Hope this helps make the transition a little smoother. Good luck, you’ve got this 💙🩺