Spinal Injury (Adult)

Question 1

Recite the Spinal Injury (Adult CPG)

Answer 1

Question 2

How do you assess Neurological Examination and neck ROM

Answer 2

Question 3

What should be assessed for motor function during a neurological exam?

Answer 3

Any weakness when the patient is asked to:

• Arms: grasp / pull / push
• Legs: push / plantar flex, pull / dorsiflex, leg raise

Motor function assessment is crucial for identifying potential neurological deficits.

Question 4

How is sensory function tested in the arms and legs?

Answer 4

Arms: Light touch across the palm and back of the hand (C6–C8)
Legs: Light touch on the lateral side of the calcaneus (S1)

Sensory function tests help determine the integrity of sensory pathways.

Question 5

What altered sensations should you ask the patient about during a sensory exam?

Answer 5

Numbness, tingling, burning, or any other altered sensation anywhere in the body.

Identifying altered sensations can indicate specific neurological issues.

Question 6

What should you do if there is any abnormal motor or sensory function?

Answer 6

Consider the patient to have a neurological deficit—they CANNOT be spinally cleared.

This step is critical to ensure patient safety and proper evaluation.

Question 7

How should strength be compared during neurological assessment?

Answer 7

Test the left and right sides simultaneously to compare strength between both sides.

This method allows for accurate assessment of potential asymmetries.

Question 8

How do you assess the neck range of motion?

Answer 8

Ask the patient to:

• Turn their head slowly to the left and right
• Approximately 45 degrees each way
• Stop if they feel pain or resistance

Assessing neck range of motion helps identify possible cervical spine issues.

Question 9

Should you move the patient’s head for them during a neck exam?

Answer 9

No, do not turn the patient’s head for them.

Allowing the patient to move their head ensures accurate assessment of their range of motion.

Question 10

What is the definition and pathophysiology of seizures

Answer 10

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain, causing temporary changes in behaviour, movement, sensation, or consciousness.
Seizures can be focal (one part of the brain) or generalised (involving both hemispheres).

🧾 Types of Seizures:
Generalised: Tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic
Focal (partial): Aware or impaired awareness
Febrile: In young children triggered by fever
Status epilepticus: Seizure >5 mins or repeated without recovery

⚠️ Common Causes:
Epilepsy
Hypoxia or hypoglycaemia
Stroke or head trauma
Infection (e.g. meningitis)
Electrolyte disturbances
Drug or alcohol withdrawal