Hemiplegia

Definition

Hemiplegia is paralysis affecting one side of the body (face, arm, leg), typically caused by contralateral brain injury. A right-hemisphere lesion produces left-sided hemiplegia and vice versa.

Common Causes

• Stroke (CVA). Most common
• Traumatic brain injury
• Brain tumor
• Cerebral palsy
• Brain infection

Nursing Interventions

• Place call light and objects on unaffected side initially; later on affected side to promote scanning
• Position to prevent shoulder subluxation (support with pillow or sling)
• Teach safe transfers (unaffected side first)
• Dress affected side FIRST; undress affected side LAST
• Perform ROM exercises; refer to PT/OT
• Address unilateral neglect (often with right-brain strokes)
• Aspiration precautions if dysphagia present

NCLEX Relevance

Dress affected side first. Approach from unaffected side for early rehab; later from affected side.