Indicate the correct descriptions of spinal shock and neurogenic shock. (Select all that apply, one, some or all.)

Rationale:

A. Providing clients with choices in their care acknowledges their autonomy and helps restore a sense of control, which is often diminished in individuals who have experienced trauma. For example, allowing clients to decide the timing of interventions, select preferred treatments, or participate in goal setting empowers them and reduces feelings of helplessness. Choice also helps in building trust and collaboration, which are essential in trauma-informed care.

B. Trustworthiness is central because clients who have experienced trauma may have difficulty trusting healthcare providers. Being consistent, reliable, and transparent in communication and care practices helps clients feel safe. This includes clear explanations of procedures, honest discussion of potential outcomes, and following through on promises. Trustworthiness reduces anxiety and promotes a therapeutic relationship, which is crucial for effective care.

C. Collaboration emphasizes that care is a partnership rather than a top-down approach. By actively involving clients in decision-making, planning, and problem-solving, providers validate clients’ perspectives and experiences. This approach respects the client’s knowledge of their own needs and promotes empowerment, engagement, and adherence to treatment plans. It also fosters mutual respect and shared responsibility in the healing process.

D. Safety is the foundation of trauma-informed care. This includes both physical safety (a secure, comfortable environment) and emotional safety (nonjudgmental, supportive communication). Trauma can heighten sensitivity to perceived threats, so ensuring safety helps prevent re-traumatization. Safety also includes predictable routines, respectful boundaries, and protecting clients from unnecessary exposure to triggers.

E. Empowerment focuses on recognizing and building upon clients’ strengths and capabilities. It involves fostering self-efficacy, resilience, and the ability to make informed choices about one’s care. Providers support empowerment by offering education, skill-building opportunities, and positive reinforcement, helping clients regain confidence and agency that may have been undermined by traumatic experiences.

Rationale:

A. Mild periorbital bruising (“raccoon eyes”) and minimal swelling are common findings after facial trauma and are not immediately life-threatening. These findings should be monitored but do not require urgent reporting unless they worsen significantly or are accompanied by other neurologic changes.

B. Withdrawal to pain is a normal protective reflex and indicates some preserved neurologic function. While ongoing neurologic assessment is important, this response alone does not indicate an acute deterioration that requires immediate physician notification.

C. Clear fluid drainage from the nose may indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, which suggests a basal skull fracture or dura mater injury. This is a serious complication that increases the risk of meningitis, brain herniation, or other neurologic compromise and must be reported to the physician immediately for prompt evaluation and management.

D. Bleeding from facial lacerations is expected after trauma and can usually be managed with standard wound care. While it should be monitored and treated, it is not as urgent as signs of CSF leakage or neurologic deterioration.