Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Radiographic studies and cystometry are performed on patients with spinal cord injuries to evaluate for which issue?

1. Development of deep vein thrombosis

2. Damage from urinary reflex

3. Respiratory tidal volumes and expiratory force

4. Orthopedic and Neurologic stability

The correct answer is: Damage from urinary reflex

The focus of radiographic studies and cystometry in patients with spinal cord injuries is primarily to assess damage from urinary reflex. This assessment is crucial because spinal cord injuries can disrupt the normal neurological pathways responsible for bladder control and urinary reflexes. In these patients, the loss of normal bladder function can lead to complications such as urinary retention, overactive bladder, or autonomic dysreflexia, which is a serious condition that can occur in response to a full bladder. Cystometry helps evaluate bladder pressures and capacity, allowing healthcare providers to determine how well the bladder is functioning and whether the urinary reflex pathways have been compromised. Radiographic studies can further identify any anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract that could contribute to dysfunction. By understanding the extent of the neurological damage and its impact on urinary reflexes, healthcare professionals can develop appropriate management strategies to mitigate complications and improve patient outcomes.