A school-age client is transported to the emergency department by ambulance from the scene of a car accident. The client is alert and oriented × 3; pulse, respirations, and blood pressure are stable; and the neck and back are immobilized on a backboard. The nurse sees no obvious bleeding. The client states, "I can't feel or move my legs." Which injury does the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inability to move or feel the legs indicates a potential spinal cord injury, which requires immediate medical attention and immobilization. The other options do not fit the client's symptoms. A traumatic brain injury may cause confusion, disorientation, or loss of consciousness but not affect the legs. A ruptured spleen may cause abdominal pain and bleeding but not affect the legs. Traumatic shock may cause hypotension, tachycardia, and altered mental status but not affect the legs.

A School-Age Client Is Transported to the Emergency Department by Ambulance