The nurse is caring for a patient who had a serious head injury.
The patient has recovered enough to be transferred to a rehabilitation facility.
Which of the following rehabilitation goals would be most appropriate for the patient?

Choice A rationale

Hypertension is not the primary concern in cervical spinal cord injuries at C-3, where respiratory compromise due to diaphragm paralysis is the leading cause of complications or mortality.

Choice B rationale

Bradycardia can occur due to vagal stimulation in spinal injuries but is less life-threatening compared to the respiratory compromise caused by diaphragmatic paralysis.

Choice C rationale

Sepsis may develop in spinal cord injury patients, particularly from infections like pneumonia or urinary tract infections, but respiratory failure is the most acute concern at C-3.

Choice D rationale

Respiratory compromise occurs due to impaired diaphragm function at C-3, making it the primary cause of morbidity or mortality, necessitating prompt respiratory support and monitoring.

Choice A rationale

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is less likely given the sudden decrease in consciousness. This type of injury typically results in severe headache or focal neurological deficits, not rapid mental decline.

Choice B rationale

Diffuse axonal injury usually presents with persistent unconsciousness rather than sudden deterioration. It results from widespread shearing forces and is less likely with the reported history.

Choice C rationale

Epidural hematoma often presents with a lucid interval followed by sudden neurological decline, as described in this case. Rapid accumulation of blood between the dura and skull can compress brain tissue.

Choice D rationale

Subdural hematoma tends to cause gradual neurological deterioration rather than a sudden decrease in Glasgow Coma Scale. This occurs due to slower venous bleeding. .