The nurse is caring for a client following a cerebrovascular accident

The nurse is caring for a client following a cerebrovascular accident (stroke). The client is able to comprehend what is being said to him; however, he is unable to respond by speech or writing.

What type of aphasia should the nurse realize this patient is demonstrating?
1. Auditory aphasia
2. Acoustic aphasia
3. Sensory aphasia
4. Expressive aphasia

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Clients with auditory aphasia have lost the ability to understand the symbolic content associated with sounds.
Rationale 2: This is the same as auditory aphasia.
Rationale 3: Sensory or receptive aphasia is the loss of the ability to comprehend written or spoken words.
Rationale 4: Motor or expressive aphasia involves loss of the power to express oneself by writing, making signs, or speaking. Clients may find that even though they can recall words, they have lost the ability to combine speech sounds into words.