Spinal Cord Injury Nursing Assessment
Respiratory Status
Assess the client’s respiratory status; monitor for atelectasis, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolus.
Vital Signs
Take vital signs q1h or more often if clinically indicated; monitor for orthostatic hypotension.
Neurologic Status
Perform neurologic status checks q1h or more often if clinically indicated.
Notify physician immediately of a deterioration of motor status.
Watch for and immediately treat autonomic dysreflexia.