QUESTIONS TO ASK THE MEDICAL TEAM It’s often hard to know what to ask in the heat of the moment. Here are some important questions for the doctors (you might spread these out over the first week as things stabilise). Write down the answers if you can, or have another family member take notes. In stressful moments, it’s easy to forget what was said. Don’t hesitate to ask the same question again later – doctors understand this is a lot to process.
What exactly is the level of the spinal cord injury, and is it complete or incomplete? (Understanding this gives you a general idea of what functions might be affected.might be affected.
What immediate treatments are being done right now? (Surgery, medicines, etc., in simple terms.)
What complications are you watching for? (For example, ask about breathing, blood pressure, and any signs of additional injuries.)
What is the plan for the next 24–48 hours? (In ICU, plans are often day by day.)
Will I/ my loved one recover movement or feeling? (Be prepared: doctors may say it’s too early to tell. But it’s okay to ask their initial impressions.)
What will the short-term and long-term outlook be? (ask the team about short-term expectations and long-term recovery.
What kind of rehabilitation will I/ he/she need, and when might that start? (Knowing the next phase helps you mentally prepare.)
Are there ways I can assist or things I should do while in the hospital? (Sometimes, the family can help by talking to the patient, playing their favourite music etc
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IMMEDIATE ACTIONS AFTER A SPINAL CORD INJURY
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