Autonomic Dystreflexia

Question 1

What is autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 1

A potentially life-threatening condition that occurs in individuals with spinal cord injuries, characterized by an overreaction of the autonomic nervous system.

Question 2

True or False: Autonomic dysreflexia is most commonly seen in individuals with injuries above T6.

Answer 2

True

Question 3

What triggers autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 3

Common triggers include bladder distension, bowel impaction, skin irritations, or other noxious stimuli below the level of injury.

Question 4

Fill in the blank: Symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia include severe _____ and _____ changes.

Answer 4

headache; blood pressure

Question 5

Which part of the nervous system is primarily affected in autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 5

The autonomic nervous system

Question 6

What is the primary symptom of autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 6

A sudden increase in blood pressure.

Question 7

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a symptom of autonomic dysreflexia? A) Sweating B) Bradycardia C) Increased appetite D) Flushing

Answer 7

C) Increased appetite

Question 8

How should autonomic dysreflexia be treated?

Answer 8

By identifying and removing the triggering stimulus and monitoring blood pressure.

Question 9

True or False: Autonomic dysreflexia can lead to seizures or stroke if not treated promptly.

Answer 9

True

Question 10

What role does the bladder play in autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 10

Bladder distension is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia.

Question 11

Fill in the blank: Patients with spinal cord injuries should regularly monitor their _____ to prevent autonomic dysreflexia.

Answer 11

bladder and bowel health

Question 12

What is the recommended position for a patient experiencing autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 12

Sit the patient upright to help lower blood pressure.

Question 13

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a potential complication of untreated autonomic dysreflexia? A) Hyperthermia B) Hypotension C) Hemorrhage D) Fever

Answer 13

C) Hemorrhage

Question 14

What is the first step in managing a patient with suspected autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 14

Identify and remove the triggering stimulus.

Question 15

True or False: Autonomic dysreflexia can occur in individuals with complete spinal cord injuries only.

Answer 15

False

Question 16

What vital sign is critical to monitor in a patient with autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 16

Blood pressure

Question 17

Fill in the blank: Autonomic dysreflexia is a result of _____ reflexes below the level of injury.

Answer 17

unopposed sympathetic

Question 18

What is a common non-medical strategy to prevent autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 18

Regular bowel and bladder management.

Question 19

Multiple Choice: Which demographic is most at risk for autonomic dysreflexia? A) Pregnant women B) Elderly individuals C) Individuals with spinal cord injuries D) Athletes

Answer 19

C) Individuals with spinal cord injuries

Question 20

How can caregivers be educated to manage autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 20

By training them to recognize symptoms and the importance of timely intervention.

Question 21

What is the impact of autonomic dysreflexia on quality of life?

Answer 21

It can significantly affect a person’s quality of life due to the fear of episodes and the need for constant monitoring.

Question 22

True or False: Autonomic dysreflexia is reversible with appropriate intervention.

Answer 22

True

Question 23

What medication may be used to manage severe hypertension in autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 23

Nitrates or antihypertensives.

Question 24

What is the main goal in managing autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer 24

To prevent complications and ensure patient safety.

Question 25

Fill in the blank: Individuals with spinal cord injuries should have an emergency plan for _____ dysreflexia.

Answer 25

autonomic