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ICU-acquired limb and respiratory muscle weakness is a common, serious ICU syndrome, increasing in frequency with prolonged ICU stay and sepsis. A systematic approach facilitates precise localization of the problem within central or peripheral nervous system. Most cases relate to critical illness polyneuropathy or myopathy or a combination of both (critical illness neuromyopathy). Within the latter entity, the relative contribution of neuropathy versus myopathy varies considerably among affected patients. Muscle enzyme testing, electromyography-nerve conduction and muscle biopsy are valuable investigative tests. Nerve biopsy is less commonly needed, but is useful when vascultis is suspected.

Using advanced neuroimaging to communicate with individuals in a vegetative state, medical science is developing a richer understanding of 'disorders of consciousness'. Join Adrian Owen, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Neuroscience and Imaging at Western, as he shares pioneering insights into our deepening knowledge of some of the most challenging questions about how the brain functions and the very nature of consciousness.

The Integrative Practicum (IP) is the final course for students in Western’s nursing program where we work alongside a registered nurse (referred to as a preceptor) and take on the full responsibilities of an independent practitioner. For my IP, I was placed on the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) at University Hospital. During this time, one of the most critical areas of my growth was in delivering care that is sensitive to both physical and psychosocial needs. This article explores this learning experience in addition to providing a glimpse into the nature of nursing care on the EMU and with patients who have epilepsy.