A patient who has had a radical neck dissection is being prepared for discharge. The discharge plan includes referral to an outpatient rehabilitation center for physical therapy. What would the goals of physical therapy for this patient include?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shoulder drop occurs as a result of radical neck dissection. Shoulder function can be improved by
rehabilitation exercises. Rehabilitation would not be initiated until the patients neck incision and graft, if present, were sufficiently healed. Nerve paralysis in the cervical plexus and other variables affecting swallowing would be managed by a speech therapist rather than a physical therapist.

A Patient Who Has Had a Radical Neck Dissection Is