Comprehensive nursing care management for a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a case study based on NANDA-I, NOC, and NIC taxonomies.

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, functional decline, and a significant reduction in quality of life. The complexity of its clinical manifestations requires nursing care focused on identifying patient needs and planning individualized care. Objective: To apply the Nursing Process to a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through comprehensive assessment and the use of NANDA-I, NIC, and NOC taxonomies, with the aim of identifying human responses and developing a care plan based on the best scientific evidence. Methodology: A descriptive case study conducted using the five stages of the Nursing Process: assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Data were collected through patient history, physical examination, analysis of diagnostic tests, and the use of assessment scales, grounded in Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory. Results: Priority nursing diagnoses identified included impaired physical mobility, self-care deficit, ineffective breathing pattern, and risk for aspiration; a care plan was designed based on these findings. Conclusion: Application of the Nursing Process enabled the provision of comprehensive care, addressing the patient's priority needs and contributing to continuity of care.