High-dose methylprednisolone after acute spinal cord injury

The spinal cord-injured patient has presented a dilemma for nursing care since the earliest survivor of such an injury. Recent research has identified a means of improving neurologic recovery for these patients. Proper administration of high-dose MP within 8 hours after injury provides the patient with the best potential for improvement. Ensuring immobilization and prevention of the complications of immobility are the next most significant actions the nurse can undertake to assist such a patient through a devastating injury toward optimal functional outcome. With continued research and education of caregivers, the residual effects of spinal cord injury may be further abated.