What should a nurse explain to a patient as a cause of triggering autonomic dysreflexia?
a. Loud sound
b. Distended bladder
c. Leg cramp
d. Sudden chilling
ANS: B
Patients with spinal cord lesions above T5 may experience sudden and extreme elevations in blood pressure caused by a reflex action of the autonomic nervous system. It is produced by stimulation of the body below the level of the injury, usually by a distended bladder from a blocked catheter. Any stimulation can produce the syndrome, including constipation, diarrhea, sexual activity, pressure ulcers, position changes (from lying to sitting), and even wrinkles in clothing or bed sheets.
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