Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

An ASIA B injury at T6-7 indicates what about the patient's sensory functions?

1. No sensory or motor function preserved below the level of injury

2. Motor function is preserved below the level of injury

3. Sensory function is preserved below the level of injury and extends through S4-5

4. Motor function is lacking but sensory function is above the injury

The correct answer is: Sensory function is preserved below the level of injury and extends through S4-5

An ASIA B injury classification signifies that the patient retains some sensory function below the level of injury, specifically at or below the S4-S5 levels, despite having no motor function preserved in those areas. In the case of an injury at T6-7, this means that the pathway for sensory signals may still be intact, leading to sensory preservation below that injury level. The ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) classification system is used to assess and categorize spinal cord injuries based on motor and sensory capabilities. The designation 'B' indicates that while the patient has no voluntary motor control below the level of injury, at least some sensory preservation is remained. Therefore, since the individual has sensory function preserved that extends to the S4-5 region, this confirms that sensory pathways are still functioning, helping to maintain some awareness of sensations such as touch and pressure in that specific area, even in the presence of motor deficiencies. In the context of this question, it clearly illustrates the characteristic features of an ASIA B injury, focused on sensory function preservation, and helps in understanding the implications for patient care and rehabilitation strategies.