A patient suffered an acute T6 spinal cord injury.Family has been told that the patient will likely be paraplegic.However,this morning the patient has limited use of her arms.How should the nurse explain this change?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The limited use of the patient's arms is likely due to swelling above the original injury site in the spinal cord. This is a common occurrence in spinal cord injuries and can cause changes in function above the level of the injury. Option A is incorrect because there is not necessarily a second area of fracture. Option C is incorrect because low blood pressure would not cause changes in arm function. Option D is incorrect because dehydration would not cause this type of neurological change.

A Patient Suffered an Acute T6 Spinal Cord Injury