A client is admitted after a fall that has resulted in spinal shock. When asked by the client's family how long the existing paralysis is likely to last, the nurse's response is based on the knowledge that:
1. The severity of the injuries cannot be determined until the spinal shock resolves.
2. Spinal shock is irreversible and the paralysis is likely to be permanent.
3. There will likely be some minor improvement in the degree of paralysis.
4. Spinal shock usually results in temporary paralysis.
The severity of the injuries cannot be determined until the spinal shock resolves.
Rationale: Spinal shock is a state of areflexia in which there is a loss of all motor, sensory, and reflex activity at the level of the injury and below. Spinal shock occurs as a result of the primary injury. The duration of spinal shock is quite variable, lasting as little as a few hours or as long as several weeks after injury. During this state, it is impossible to determine the extent of the SCI. At this point in time, it is not possible to determine whether the paralysis is temporary, permanent, or will lessen.
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