A nurse is caring for a client following a complete spinal cord transection injury. The client's family asks the nurse what the term paraplegia means. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. Weakness in the lower body is not an accurate description of paraplegia. Paraplegia refers to the loss of function, not just weakness.

B. Paraplegia refers to the loss of motor and sensory function in the lower body, including the legs, due to a spinal cord injury, typically below the level of the injury. This is the most accurate response.

C. Temporary loss of motor and sensory functions is more characteristic of conditions like spinal shock, not paraplegia. Paraplegia refers to permanent impairment following spinal cord injury.

D. The description of loss of movement from the neck down is characteristic of quadriplegia (or tetraplegia), not paraplegia, which specifically involves the lower body.

A. Limiting the client's physical activity is not recommended for clients with Parkinson's disease. Physical activity, including exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility, is essential to manage symptoms and maintain mobility.

B. Providing the client a cane is appropriate. A cane can help with balance and stability, especially as the client experiences motor symptoms such as rigidity and bradykinesia. It can reduce the risk of falls.

C. Offering the client 3 large meals a day is not ideal. Smaller, more frequent meals are recommended for clients with Parkinson's disease, as they may experience difficulty swallowing, digestion issues, or a reduced appetite.

D. Speaking loudly to the client is not necessary unless the client has difficulty hearing. It is more important to speak clearly and at a normal volume, as clients with Parkinson's disease may have issues with speech (e.g., soft or slurred speech).