A nurse encountered a patient in a wheelchair 3 months after the patient had sustained a crushing injury to his cervical spinal cord at the level of C6 in a motorcycle accident. Although the patient was paralyzed, his limbs were thrashing, his face was bright red, and he was sweating profusely. What was happening?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are indicative of a mass reflex, which is a condition that can occur in individuals with spinal cord injuries. It involves an exaggerated autonomic response, often triggered by stimuli below the level of injury, leading to symptoms such as sweating, flushing, and involuntary movements.

A Nurse Encountered a Patient in a Wheelchair 3 Months