A Patient with Quadriplegia Resulting from a Spinal Cord Injury

question 28

Multiple Choice

A patient with quadriplegia resulting from a spinal cord injury says to the rehabilitation nurse,"I'm sick of this therapy! What is an occupational therapist going to do for me? Can she give me an 'occupation'?" What response by the nurse would be the most helpful?

• A)"No,but the occupational therapist can show you how to enjoy some recreational activities."
• B)"Yes,in a way.The occupational therapist provides training that strengthens muscles you can still control."
• C)"Maybe.The occupational therapist recommends adaptive equipment that will make you more independent."
• D)"No,the voc-rehab counselor helps with employment.The occupational therapist helps train you for improved communication skills."

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Definitions:

Plasticity

The brain's capacity to change and adapt in response to experiences, learning, and injury.

Changing Resource Allocations

The process of adjusting how resources are distributed or assigned, often in response to shifts in needs, priorities, or availability.

Multidirectional

A characteristic of development indicating that capacity can increase or decrease at various points across the lifespan, depending on a range of factors.

Historical Context

The background, culture, and circumstances that form the setting for events, statements, or ideas, and in terms of which they can be fully understood.