Foreign accent syndrome: A case report

Introduction

Foreign Accent Syndrome (FAS) is an acquired speech disorder due to a lesion of the central nervous system, characterized by the appearance of a foreign accent when speaking the native language.

The objective is to describe a case of SAE as a form of presentation of a stroke.

Development

Male, 72 years old, Spanish, with ischemic heart disease, dyslipidemia, COPD. Autonomous for Activities of Daily Living. Admitted for chest pain on slight exertion. Presents difficulty in responding and obeying orders, feels that the accent and speed of speech are different. His relatives say that he speaks like the English, but in Spanish.

In neurological examination conscious, oriented, obeys orders, no dysarthria. Language is clear, fluent and intelligible, with alteration of intonation and rhythm. Mild right facial paresis.

Results

A care plan was developed based on Gordon’s functional patterns, with NANDA diagnoses, interventions (NIC) and expected outcomes (NOC). Due to the rarity of the case it is justified to establish an individualized care plan, obtaining 7 nursing diagnoses and 12 nursing interventions with their respective NOC.

The Clinical Judgment was of ischemic stroke of cardioembolic origin. The evolution was favorable, after 3 months she recovered her normal accent and did not report any speech alteration or identity problems.

Conclusion

SAE is an infrequent syndrome, which can generate identity conflicts if it does not subside.

We consider it necessary to be aware of this syndrome so that it can be recognized early, and to be able to offer a correct nursing approach that guarantees quality care and psychological support.