A patient with an acute spinal cord injury has flaccid paralysis and absent reflexes below the level of injury during the early period after trauma. Which condition does this finding suggest?
Correct answer: A. Spinal shock
- A. Spinal shock
- B. Autonomic dysreflexia
- C. Neurogenic shock
- D. Brown-Séquard syndrome
Explanation
Spinal shock causes temporary loss of motor activity, sensation and reflexes below the injury, producing flaccid paralysis. Autonomic dysreflexia causes severe hypertension, while neurogenic shock mainly causes hypotension with bradycardia and warm skin.
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About Neurological Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of stroke, epilepsy, meningitis, raised intracranial pressure, head injury, spinal cord disorders, Parkinson disease and multiple sclerosis. Key areas include level of consciousness, pupil responses, motor and sensory findings, seizure precautions and distinguishing upper motor neuron from lower motor neuron signs.
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