A 20-year-old female suffered from spinal cord injury that resulted from a motor vehicle accident. She had spinal shock lasting 15 days and is now experiencing an uncompensated cardiovascular response to sympathetic stimulation. This condition may accompany:
A) toxic accumulation of free radicals below the level of the injury.
B) pain stimulation above the level of the spinal cord lesion.
C) a distended bladder or rectum.
D) an abnormal vagal response.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A distended bladder or rectum is a common cause of an uncompensated cardiovascular response to sympathetic stimulation in patients with spinal cord injury. The distension stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and can cause rapid increases in heart rate and blood pressure. This can lead to life-threatening complications such as autonomic dysreflexia. Treatment involves immediate identification and resolution of the underlying cause of the stimulation.

A 20-Year-Old Female Suffered from Spinal Cord Injury That Resulted