Question

Describe the phenomenon of autonomic dysreflexia, the signs and symptoms, and management of the condition in an adolescent with spinal cord injury.

What issues could you see arise with parents or caregivers in regards to this condition when caring for the child at home

Answer 1

#. Autonomic dysreflexia -

Is an extreme rise in blood pressure. This is a medical emergency if not reversed.

AD Etiology:

sympathetic nerve impairment, generally occurring in persons who have spinal cord injury above T-6 level.

• Loss of control of anal sphincter

• Sensory loss resulting in a lack of awareness of feces in the bowel

• Motor loss, decreased or lost ability to self initiate or control a bowel movement

#. Signs and Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia above the level of injury:

throbbing headache, flushing, sweating, bradycardia, blurred vision, nausea, nasal congestion

Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia below the level of injury:

pallor, chills or goose bumps

#. Management of autonomic dysreflexia:

• Identify the offending stimulus and relieve the underlying issue immediately

• Medications, if no impact can be made

Prevention of AD

• Teach person/caregiver frequent pressure relief principles

• Ensure compliance with intermittent catherization

• Practice well-balanced diet habits

• Ensure medication compliance

• Educate person with condition and caregivers or family members. Recognition of the cause signs, symptoms (sweating, headache). First aid procedures to deal effectively with the occurrence and prevention methods for this condition

#. The issues you could see that arise with parents or caregivers in regards to this condition when caring for the child at home :-

- non compliance to medications and treatment

- unbalanced diet plan

- unae to manage a emergency situation

- don't know about first aid

- anxiety and stress