Care of morbidly obese people with spinal cord injury

As the number of obese people in the United States continues to increase, all nurses will encounter the unique challenges that result from the pathophysiological changes in this population. The combination of morbid obesity and spinal cord injury creates complex medical management for caregivers throughout hospitalization and after dismissal. Thus, the complications of spinal cord injury are intensified with obesity. Prevention and treatment of secondary complications require nursing practice to go above and beyond the standards of care. This article reviews complications and adjustments in the care of the morbidly obese spinal cord-injured patient, beginning at the scene of injury and through the emergency trauma, intensive care, and rehabilitation units.