Quadriplegia: focus on rehabilitation

Spinal cord injury resulting in quadriplegia is one of the most devastating types of injury. The rehabilitation process actually begins at the time of injury. Emphasis on independence, however, is usually not a major factor until the client reaches the rehabilitation unit. This paper will focus on the rehabilitation management of a client with quadriplegia. Nursing interventions and teaching related to skin care, bowel and bladder care, nutrition, mobility, hygiene, and dressing will be discussed. Discharge planning, an integral component of the rehabilitation process, will also be addressed.