Spinal Cord Injuries: Clinical Care Across the Continuum

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents a complex and evolving set of clinical challenges that demand advanced nursing knowledge and interprofessional coordination. This course equips LPNs, RNs, and APRNs with a deep understanding of SCI pathophysiology, classification systems, and acute versus chronic complications, including respiratory compromise, sensory loss, autonomic dysfunction, and mobility barriers. Learners will examine evidence-based assessment techniques, rehabilitation strategies, and quality-of-life interventions with attention to trauma-informed care and disability advocacy. Content integrates the latest clinical standards and epidemiological insights, ensuring that nurses are prepared to care for individuals with SCI across the lifespan and across settings—from the trauma bay to the home and community.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the anatomical and functional classification of spinal cord injuries using the ISNCSCI and ASIA Impairment Scale.
2. Describe the acute and long-term physiologic effects of spinal cord injury, with an emphasis on respiratory, neurologic, and autonomic complications.
3. Identify best practices for nursing assessment, stabilization, and early management in the acute phase of SCI.
4. Discuss interdisciplinary rehabilitation approaches and chronic care strategies, including pressure injury prevention, bowel and bladder management, and assistive technology.
5. Apply trauma-informed and person-centered approaches to support psychosocial well-being, independence, and quality of life after SCI.