Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

What is spinal shock characterized by?

1. Complete autonomic function return

2. Loss of autonomic and sensory activity

3. Intermittent autonomic reflexes

4. Increased muscle tone and reflex activity

The correct answer is: Loss of autonomic and sensory activity

Spinal shock is characterized by a temporary loss of all reflexes and autonomic functions below the level of injury following spinal cord injury. This results in complete loss of sensation and movement, along with the absence of voluntary motor function and autonomic control in the affected areas. During this phase, patients may exhibit flaccid paralysis and are unable to initiate movement or response to stimuli. The recovery process from spinal shock can vary, but it typically involves a gradual return of reflexes and motor function, which differentiates it from other conditions affecting the spinal cord. As spinal shock resolves, there may be a return of some autonomic functions, but initially, the most prominent characteristic is the complete loss of both autonomic and sensory activity below the injury site. This aligns with the correct answer highlighting the loss experienced in spinal shock.