Final answer:
Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that involves a sudden rise in blood pressure. To resolve it, remove any irritants, sit the person upright immediately, and seek medical help to manage the condition properly, which may include the administration of antihypertensive drugs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autonomic dysreflexia is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in people with spinal cord injuries above the T6 level. It is characterized by a sudden and excessive increase in blood pressure. The correct steps to resolve autonomic dysreflexia involve:
Immediately identify and remove irritants that could be triggering the response, such as a full bladder, tight clothing, or any other source of discomfort.
Sit the person upright to help lower blood pressure, not to elevate legs which can actually worsen the situation because elevating the legs can increase blood return to the heart, thereby increasing cardiac output and potentially raising blood pressure further.
Seeking medical attention as soon as possible to address and manage the situation properly with appropriate medications or actions, including potentially the administration of antihypertensive drugs to lower blood pressure if needed.
These steps are crucial because if left untreated, autonomic dysreflexia can lead to severe complications, including strokes, cardiac arrest, and even death.