Diagnosis and Management of Bell’s Palsy in Primary Care

Abstract

Bell’s palsy is characterized by rapid, unilateral paralysis of cranial nerve VII and is the most common cause of acute facial paralysis, although the pathogenesis of the condition is poorly understood. Bell’s palsy can be managed by the nurse practitioner in primary care, and the majority of clients achieve full recovery. Appropriate diagnosis through history and physical examination to exclude other causes allows for timely diagnosis, intervention, and patient reassurance. Pharmacologic and adjunctive treatment is available to shorten the duration and improve symptoms. Nurse practitioners should be able to identify circumstances in which referral to a specialist for intervention and follow-up may be appropriate.