Autonomic Dysreflexia - Hyperreflexia

Hyperreflexia

Hyperreflexia (Autonomic Dysreflexia), after spinal cord injury. Uncompensated adrenergic response. Causes: HTN, constipation, presure sores and pain. Steroids ASAP. (these pt's will also lose thermal control)

Diagnostic Test:

Xray, CT/MRI, Myelography

Medications:

antihypertensives - Procardia, Nitrogyclerine, Regitine, Apresoline, Hyperstat - relief of precipitating cause is very important

Characteristics:

exaggerated sympathetic nervous system response to spinal cord injury above T6, occurs after spinal shock has subsided

Cause:

full bladder, abdominal distention, impacted feces, skin pressure of breakdown, overstretched muscle, sexual intercourse, labor and delivery, sunburn below level of injury, infected ingrown toenail, exposure to hot and cold enrivoment, taking otc decongestants

Medical Treatment:

prevention is the best treatment, mechanical immobilization with cervical collar and back support, IV access, Corticosteriods, surgical repair, traction with weights and pulleys, truning grams for reposition and body alignment

Nursing Management:

raising the clients head as well as giving medications, neuro exam, and evaluate the presence of pain, respiratory status, motor ability, sensation,

Signs and Symptoms:

severe hypertension, slow HR (bradycardia), pounding greadach, causea, blurred vision, flushed skin, sweating, goose bumps, nasal stuffiness, anxiety, if uncontrolled, can lead to seizures and death