The nurse is caring for a patient immediately after a spinal cord injury between T7-T8 vertebrae. The patient displays the following symptoms: absent reflexes, flaccidity, loss of sensation below the level of injury, bradycardia, and hypotension. These are signs of which condition?
Neurogenic shock
Brain herniation
Spinal shock
Autonomic dysreflexia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Neurogenic shock occurs in spinal cord injuries above T6 and is characterized by hypotension, bradycardia, and loss of sympathetic tone below the level of injury. This condition results from disruption of autonomic pathways.
B. Brain herniation typically involves increased intracranial pressure and different neurological symptoms.
C. Spinal shock involves temporary loss of reflexes and sensation but does not specifically cause bradycardia or hypotension.
D. Autonomic dysreflexia involves sudden high blood pressure and is usually triggered by noxious stimuli, occurring after the acute phase of SCI.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discussing over-the-counter drugs with the healthcare provider is essential, as they can interact with antiepileptic medications.
B. Discontinuing antiepileptic medications abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and is unsafe, so this statement is correct.
C. Doubling up on doses can lead to toxicity and adverse effects; missed doses should not be made up by doubling the next dose. This response indicates the need for further teaching.
D. Taking medications exactly as prescribed is necessary to maintain therapeutic levels and manage seizure control effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The head tilt chin lift method should be avoided due to the risk of aggravating a spinal injury; the jaw-thrust maneuver is safer if airway management is necessary.
B. While controlling bleeding is important, cervical spine stabilization takes priority in trauma with suspected spinal injury.
C. Not moving the victim is appropriate, but stabilizing the cervical spine provides active support to avoid further injury.
D. Stabilizing the cervical spine is crucial to prevent potential spinal cord damage in an unconscious trauma victim, particularly in a motor vehicle accident. This action helps prevent exacerbation of any spinal injury.
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