Nursing care is the most important part of the treatment
of paralyzed patients. SIRC’s medical unit provides
this service with a medical doctor, qualified staff nurse,
supported by experienced nursing aid personnel and from
time to time experienced volunteers.
Education
As part of the multidisciplinary team, the nurses work
with each patient and caregiver to:
• educate patients according to their level of spinal
cord injury
• maintain independence through the promotion of
self care.
• establish safe transfer of the patient to and
from the wheelchair
• have good posture when sitting in the wheelchair
• ensure that a proper mattress and wheelchair cushions
are used to avoid pressure sores
• avoid extreme changes in temperature
• eat a well balanced diet to maintain ideal body
weight
• use stress management techniques
Bladder management
A bladder management program is designed based on each
patient’s needs and specific injury. Nurses, in
collaboration with the physician, will also establish
a catheterization program to fit each patient’s
individual needs.
Skin management
We work with patients to establish good skin care to help
them prevent hospital stays for the treatment and surgery
of pressure sores
Autonomic dysreflexia
Autonomic dysreflexia is an overreaction of the nervous
system caused by an irritation or other stimulus.. Nurses
and the Physician teach the patient and caregivers how
to recognize signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia
and treatment options.
Bowel management
Various techniques used to achieve continence and regularity
include: digital stimulation, oral medications, suppositories
and mini-enemas. Patients and care givers learn about
the importance of good nutrition and a high fiber diet
in maintaining continence and regularity.
