Peripheral Nervous System Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy)
Onset is acute.
Cause remains obscure.
Management consists of prednisone and analgesics.
Nursing care is directed toward managing the major neurologic deficits and providing psychosocial support.
80% of clients recover fully within a few months.
Approximately 20% have residual weakness; a few have permanent neurologic deficits.