You are working with a patient who sustained a C5 spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis of the arms, trunk, and legs. This person has:
A) diplegia
B) hemiplegia
C) pseudoplegia
D) tetraplegia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice is D, tetraplegia, because this term specifically refers to paralysis affecting all four limbs and the trunk, which is consistent with the patient's presentation. A is incorrect because diplegia refers to paralysis affecting corresponding parts on both sides of the body (e.g. both legs), but this patient has more widespread paralysis. B is incorrect because hemiplegia refers to paralysis affecting one half of the body, while this patient has symmetrical paralysis on both sides. C is incorrect because pseudoplegia is not a specific diagnosis, but rather a term used to describe a psychogenic paralysis that is not related to an actual neurological injury or disorder.

You Are Working with a Patient Who Sustained a C5