Cauda equina and spinal cold compression Flashcards
1
Q
Airway
A
2
Q
Breathing
A
Look
Listen
Feel
O2, RR
Temperature: think infection due to abscess
Xray
ABG
3
Q
Circulation
A
usual
4
Q
Disability
A
PEARL
GCS
BM
Neuro - weakness, paraesthesia, anal tone, saddle anaesthesia, urinary retention (catheter) or incontinence, faecal incontinence
Management:
Pain
If Hx of cancer: dexamethasone 16mg PO or IV stat/ followed by 8mg BD
Definitive management:
- urgent radiotherapy
- neurosurgical review
- emergency MRI whole spine
Escalate:
- oncology SpR
- neurosurgery SpR
5
Q
Exposure
A
spinal exam for fracture