Neurological Question #35
Question
The nurse is caring for a client who is recovering from a T1 spinal cord injury. Which is the best explanation by the nurse to the client and family on ability for motor function in relation to spinal cord injury?
Answers
- There will be complete loss of mobility with paralysis from the neck down.
- Rationale:
- There will be risks of respiratory depression because of the location of the injury.
- Rationale:
- The shoulders may be mobile and shrug, but the arms below the shoulders will be paralyzed.
- Rationale:
- The arms will retain their full function.
- Rationale:
Overview
Explanation
T1 injuries are expected to retain full function of arms. C5 and above indicate complete loss of mobility with paralysis from the neck down above C-5 and shoulder only with paralysis downward for C-5. Respiratory depression will occur for cervical injuries, especially those above C-5.
Learning Outcomes
Test Taking Tip