Lecture Notes: Types of Shock in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Introduction

• Speaker: Dr. Carmen Corder from thedrnurse.com
• Focus: Two types of shock in spinal cord injury patients
• Content will be included in the Neuro Disorders Pathopedia eBook

Types of Shock

1. Neurogenic Shock

   • Involves the entire nervous system
   • Caused by high-level spinal cord injury, typically above T6
   • Disrupts sympathetic nervous system messages from T1 to L2
   • Loss of sympathetic nervous stimulation results in:
     • Loss of epinephrine and norepinephrine
     • Significant bradycardia and hypotension due to vasodilation
   • Priority assessments and interventions:
     • Maintain airway and breathing
     • Apply cervical spine precautions
     • Manage blood pressure through fluids and medications like atropine
     • Target Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP): 80-85

2. Spinal Shock

   • Affects only the spinal cord
   • Occurs anywhere along the spinal cord
   • Results from bleeding and inflammation causing tissue damage
   • Damaged tissue releases chemical mediators leading to vasoconstriction
   • Causes spinal cord ischemia and hypoxia
   • Symptoms include paralysis and loss of sensation below the level of injury
   • Recovery occurs once inflammation, bleeding, and pressure are relieved

Summary

• Both types of shock are detailed in the upcoming Neuro Disorders Pathopedia eBook
• Keep an eye out for the release of the Neurological Disorders Pathopedia eBook

Memory Trick

• Neurogenic shock: Entire nervous system is in shock
• Spinal shock: Focuses on the tasks of the spinal cord being compromised

Additional Notes:

• These disorders are distinct, and understanding the differences is crucial for treatment and management.
• Neurogenic shock requires immediate attention to maintain vital functions.