You are concerned about the possibility of disuse syndrome related to C.B.'s paralysis

Question

Describe an outcome of nursing care for C.B., and describe the independent nursing
interventions you would implement to meet that outcome.

Examples of goals for C.B. would be the absence of complications of immobility, maintenance of full
range of motion, and lack of decline in limb girth measurements.

Answer 1

The interventions prescribed for mobility and self-management and to prevent complications
would depend on the degree of motor deficit. Interventions that would assist C.B. include the
following:
• Perform range-of-motion exercises a minimum of twice daily to promote muscle strength and
mobility and to prevent contractures.
• Careful positioning is crucial, with emphasis on maintaining joint function, muscle tone, and range
of motion.
• Use assistive devices of the correct size, and provide instructions for their safe use.
• Assess the patient's motor (muscle) function as part of the neurologic assessment.
• Activities need to be alternated with rest periods.
• Administer analgesics at least 30 minutes before activity if he is experiencing pain.
• Refer C.B. to physical and occupational therapy as necessary.