Question

A client is admitted to the trauma center with a spinal cord transection at T4. Which of the physical limitations does the nurse anticipate when planning care? Select all that apply.

A. The client will need ventilator support.
B. The client will be unable to independently ambulate.
C. The client will have no control of the bladder.
D. The client will need assistance with feeding.
E. The client will be unable to speak.
F. The client will be cognitively impaired.

Answer 1

A client with a spinal cord transection at T4 can experience limitations such as the need for ventilator support, inability to ambulate independently, lack of bladder control, and the need for assistance with feeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client is admitted to the trauma center with a spinal cord transection at T4, there are several physical limitations that the nurse can anticipate when planning care. Some of these limitations include:

1. The client will need ventilator support: The injury to the spinal cord can result in paralysis of the muscles responsible for breathing, requiring the need for ventilator support.
2. The client will be unable to independently ambulate: The injury at T4 will likely affect the lower limbs, resulting in paralysis and the inability to walk without assistance.
3. The client will have no control of the bladder: The injury can disrupt the communication between the bladder and the brain, leading to incontinence.
4. The client will need assistance with feeding: Depending on the severity of the injury, the client may have limited movement or coordination, requiring assistance with feeding.