You are preparing a nursing care plan for the patient with SCI including the nursing diagnosis Impaired Physical Mobility and Self-Care Deficit. The patient tells you, “I don’t know why we’re doing all this. My life’s over.” What additional nursing diagnosis takes priority based on this statement?
A. Risk for Injury related to altered mobility
B. Imbalanced Nutrition, Less Than Body Requirements
C. Impaired Adjustment to Spinal Cord Injury
D. Poor Body Image related to immobilization
Correct Answer: C. Impaired Adjustment to Spinal Cord Injury
The patient’s statement indicates impairment of adjustment to the limitations of the injury and indicates the need for additional counseling, teaching, and support.
Option A: The patient may have a risk for injury due to SCI, but it is not related to the statement. The spinal cord can be injured by transection, distraction, compression, bruising, hemorrhage or ischemia of the cord or by injury to blood vessels supplying it. These injuries can all result in permanent cord injury and may be complete or incomplete.
Option B: A client with SCI may have imbalanced nutrition because of a lesser appetite for eating, but it is not directly related to the statement. Refer to a Dietician early to ensure adequate nutrition, fluid & fiber in the feeds.
Option D: This nursing diagnosis may be appropriate to the patient with SCI, but it is not related to the patient’s statement.