A 14-year-old girl is in the intensive care unit after a spinal cord injury 2 days ago. Nursing care for this child includes which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After a spinal cord injury, it is crucial to monitor and maintain systemic blood pressure to ensure adequate perfusion of the spinal cord and minimize secondary injury. Administration of corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and potentially improve outcomes if administered within the initial hours following the injury. Monitoring for respiratory complications is also essential due to the risk of respiratory muscle weakness or paralysis, depending on the level of the spinal injury. Discussing long-term care issues immediately after the injury might not be appropriate due to the acute phase of care and the uncertainty regarding the full extent of recovery. Minimizing environmental stimuli is not specifically indicated for spinal cord injury care and is more relevant to conditions like brain injuries where sensory overload can be a concern.

A 14-Year-Old Girl Is in the Intensive Care Unit After