38717 Vestibular and Balance Clinical Testing Procedures

Course overview

Discussion of common peripheral and central vestibular and balance disorders, classes of eye movement and main functions, and tests conducted during an evaluation for vestibular and balance disorders, including the questions to ask the patient when conducting an exam. Vestibular problems may affect individuals throughout the life cycle, occurring in infants as well as elderly individuals, and may have diverse causes. Evaluation and treatment of patients with dizziness and balance disorders is a great challenge for healthcare professionals. Due to challenges with accurately diagnosing and reporting, it is difficult to know exactly how many individuals are affected by a vestibular disorder. However, it is estimated that as many of 35% of adults aged 40 and over in the US have experienced some form of vestibular dysfunction. Eighty percent of adults aged 65 and older have experienced dizziness, and vertigo from a vestibular problem accounts for a third of all dizziness and vertigo symptoms reported to healthcare professionals. Vestibular disorders can cause dizziness, imbalance, and subsequent risk of fall and thereby greatly limit mobility, function, and quality of life. As the population ages, there is a continual growing need for healthcare providers to develop comprehensive solutions to maximize mobility and achieve positive functional outcomes. This program discusses common vestibular and balance disorders and introduces nursing professionals to assessment techniques and clinical testing procedures used in diagnosing these disorders.