A patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI) is admitted to the unit ...

[rlane42]

A patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI) is admitted to the unit and placed in traction. Which actions should the nurse include when caring for this patient?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. modifying the traction weights as needed
  2. assessing the patient's skin integrity
  3. applying the traction upon admission
  4. administering pain medication
  5. providing passive range of motion

Question 2

A patient with a spinal cord injury was given IV dexamethasone (Decadron) after arriving in the emergency department. What assessment finding should the nurse attribute to the steroid medication?
 
  1. hypoglycemia
  2. less spinal shock
  3. urinary retention
  4. muscle spasms

[choc0chan]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2, 4, 5
When caring for a patient in traction, the nurse is responsible for assessment and care of the skin due to the increased risk of skin breakdown. The patient in traction is likely to experience pain. The nurse is responsible for assessing the pain and administering the appropriate analgesic as ordered. Passive range of motion helps prevent contractures; this is often performed by a physical therapist or the nurse. The healthcare provider is responsible for initially applying the traction device. The weights on the traction device must not be changed without the order of a healthcare provider.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
In the patient with a spinal cord injury, corticosteroids may be used to reduce or control inflammation and edema of the cord, which can lead to less spinal shock. A common side effect of corticosteroids is hyperglycemia. Steroids do not cause urinary retention or muscle spasms.