Question

When should you refer a client with whiplash to a physician?

a. if grade 4 whiplash is suspected, extreme muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing
b. if grade 2 whiplash is suspected, moderate muscle stiffness or mild headache
c. if grade 3 whiplash is suspected, tingling sensation or slight dizziness
d. if grade 1 whiplash is suspected, localized neck pain or mild discomfort

Answer 1

A referral to a physician is warranted for suspected grade 4 whiplash with symptoms such as extreme muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing. Severe neuromuscular symptoms or signs of serious conditions like meningitis also require immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When dealing with a client who has sustained a whiplash injury, referral to a physician is necessary under certain circumstances. A referral should be made if grade 4 whiplash is suspected, presenting with symptoms such as extreme muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing. More severe symptoms like double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, muscle weakness, paralysis, and a stiff neck could also indicate the need for medical intervention. These could reflect more significant neuromuscular involvement, indicative of more serious underlying pathologies.

Headaches and stiff neck can also be symptoms of serious conditions such as meningitis or tension headaches due to muscle tension. Meningitis is typically associated with rapid progression of symptoms like severe headaches, high fever, and confusion. Whereas, tension headaches resulting from muscle tension might not require immediate referral unless they are persistent or severely impacting the individual's daily functioning.

Cervical dystonia, a painful condition affecting head and neck movements, and other neurological signs like hemiparesis (weakness on one side of the body) are additional red flags that demand immediate medical attention.