Potential Complications of Spinal Cord Injury Flashcards
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Results from formation of a blood clot that is dislodged: aka an embolus
What is the term for a blood clot that has been dislodged?
Embolus
Why are patients with SCI more at risk of forming a DVT?
Due to the absence of or decrease in the normal pumping action by active contraction of muscles in the lower extremities.
What special test can be used to detect a DVT? (hint the test sucks)
Homan’s Sign
What are some ways to prevent a DVT?
- Prophylactic Anticoagulation Medications
- Maintain a positioning schedule
- Range of Motion
- Positioning to avoid excessive venous stasis
- Elastic Stockings
What are Symptoms of a DVT?
- LE Swelling
- Pain
- Sensitivity over the area of the clot
- warmth in the area of the clot
DVT Treatment Options
Bed rest snf anticoagulant pharmacological interventions
- We SHOULD NOT try to perform active or passive movement of the involved LE.
What SCI population (LEVELS) tend to have autonomic dysreflexia
Lesions at or above T6
What causes autonomic dysreflexia?
Noxious Stimulus below the level of the lesion
Common Causes of Autonomic Dysreflexia?
- Distended or Full Bladder
- kink or blockage of the catheter
- bladder infections
- pressure ulcers
- extreme temperature changes
- tight clothing
- ingrown toe nails
Signs/Symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia?
- High Blood Pressure
- Severe HA
- Blurred Vision
- Stuffy Nose
- Profuse Sweating
- Goosebumps below the level of the lesion
- Vasodilation (flushing) above the injury
Autonomic Dysreflexia Treatment
- Have the patient assume or remain in a sitting position
- [Laying a patient down is contraindicated and will lead to a further increase in BP]
- Check for any potential irritating stimuli
What is Orthostatic Hypotension (Postural Hypotension)
A decrease in SBP greater than 20 mmHg after moving from a supine position to a sitting position
or
A decrease in DBP greater than 10 mmHg
Symptoms of OH?
Complaints of:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- “blacking out”
Treatment for OH
Gradual progression to a vertical position using a tilt table
- Drugs to increase BP
