Spinal Cord Injuries

•Definition :• Spinal cord injuries are the result mechanical force

that disrupts neurologic tissue ,vascular supply,

• Types• I- Complete Injury. Complete SCI results in a total

loss of sensory and motor function• II- Incomplete Injury• III- Spinal Shock.• IV- Neurogenic Shock

Nursing Management.

• Cardiovascular.• Assess fluid volume• Monitor for hypotension and bradycardia• Continuous cardiac monitoring for dysrrythmia• Avoid changes in body temperture, hypothermia

can produce brady-dysrrhythmias and sinus arrest.• Apply strategy to prevent orthostatic hypotension

as reposition slowly, wear pressure stockings. • Apply strategy to prevent occurrence of deep vein

thrombosis (DVT) heparin

Pulmonary

observe respiratory rate and rhythm• assess symmetry of chest expansion and use of accessory

muscles. • Use suctioning cautiously and inspect quantity and character

of secretions. • auscultation of breath sounds.• assess arterial blood gas values.• Promote adequate breathing and airway clearance. • Monitor pulse oximetry. •  Chest Physiotherapy. • Humidification. • Adequate hydration. 

•Assess for signs of respiratory infection.

Maintain skin •Prevent pressure ulcer•Relieve pressure by repositioning and turning •at least every 2 hours while maintaining spinal ,precautions•Administer preventive measures,• perform baseline skin assessment on backboard,

Maintain Urinary and Bowel Function

Intermittent or indwelling catheter . fluid intake, and high-fiber diet.Laxatives and stool softeners

• Range of motion exercises are initiated as soon as the spine has been stabilized.

• Foot and hand drop splints should be applied and reapplied every 2 hours.

• Inspection of pins and traction for security with correct positioning and turning.

• Maximizing Psychosocial Adaptation , the promotion of coping mechanisms, support systems, and adaptive skills.

• Complications of spinal cord • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) • Pulmonary embolism• Neurogenic shock• Hysterical paralysis• Pneumonia and other respiratory

complications Urological complications• Pressure ulceration