Osmosis video - Nervous system: Brain and spinal cord injuries

The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system, which controls the body's movements, senses, and thoughts. Injuries to these body parts can have devastating and sometimes permanent consequences. Brain and spinal cord injuries can be traumatic, resulting from an external physical force, or nontraumatic, due to lack of blood flow to the brain or spinal cord, as seen in stroke.

Symptoms of the injury vary depending on the location and extent. A brain injury can cause several symptoms, like confusion or headaches, or in more serious cases, result in death. Long-term consequences may include problems with movement, mental functions, coma, and persistent vegetative state.

A spinal cord injury at the lumbar level might result in paraplegia, or paralysis in the legs and lower trunk, whereas an injury at the neck will result in tetraplegia, which is paralysis in the arms, trunk, and legs. Both types of paralysis can be partial or complete, and can be associated with sensation problems and loss of bowel and bladder control.

Clients with a brain or spinal cord injury may have special needs, including assistance with self-care, movement, personal hygiene, communication, and nutrition. When caring for such people, it's crucial to remember to help prevent pressure ulcers with proper and regular skin care and assisting with position changes. Also, remember to practice safety measures to prevent falls, and prevent aspiration by making sure they remain upright during and after meals.