Spinal Cord Injury Levels - Functionality of C1, C2, C3 Quadriplegic
Mobility & Movement
Limited head and neck movement depending on
muscle strength.
Complete paralysis of arms, body and legs.
Sympathetic nervous system will be compromised,
possibility of Autonomic Dysreflexia.
Electric wheelchair may possibly be controlled
by either a chin or "sip and puff" controller, this
will vary depending on dexterity.
The person will require total
assistance when transferring from a bed to a wheelchair and
from a wheelchair into a car. A hoist will have to be used,
possibly by two assistants for safety.
Complete assistance required during
mealtimes.
Respiratory System
Inability to breathe using chest
muscles or diaphragm, therefore the person will be dependant
on a ventilator to breathe. A portable ventilator can be attached
to the back of a wheelchair during transport.
Oxygen and humidification may
be required.
Assistance required to clear secretions
from trachea, and assistance in coughing will be required.
Personal Care
Complete personal assistance is
required. The person will need assistance with washing, dressing,
and assistance with bowel and bladder management.
Domestic Care
Complete domestic care is required,
such as household cleaning, washing of clothes and kitchen
duties, preparation of meals and general household duties.
Communication
A computer may be operated using
iris recognition, mouth stick or voice recognition. Telephone
can be used using voice recognition and headset.
|