Question

"You are evaluating a trauma patient who may have sustained a spinal cord injury. Which of the following would you expect to see in a trauma patient with a spinal cord injury with autonomic nervous system involvement?

A. Bradycardia, hypotension, and a loss of sweating or shivering ability

B. Bradycardia, hypertension, warm, dry skin, and numbness of fingertips

C. Tachycardia, hypertension, one-sided paralysis, and amnesia

D. Tachycardia, hypotension, diaphoresis, cool, and clammy skin"

Answer 1

In trauma patients with a spinal cord injury involving the autonomic nervous system, symptoms such as tachycardia, hypotension, diaphoresis, and cool and clammy skin may be observed. This could indicate autonomic dysreflexia, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

In trauma patients with a spinal cord injury involving the autonomic nervous system, the expected symptoms include tachycardia (fast heartbeat), hypotension (low blood pressure), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), and cool and clammy skin. This combination of symptoms is characteristic of autonomic dysreflexia, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs due to an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. It is important for healthcare providers to recognize these signs in order to provide prompt treatment and prevent complications.