A patient with C5 AIS A who lacks wrist extension would benefit from which feeding modification?

A patient with C5 AIS A who lacks wrist extension would benefit from which feeding modification?

• A. Standard utensils with no modifications
• B. Rocker knife
• C. Universal cuff with built-up utensils, plate guard, and setup assistance
• D. Automatic feeder only

Answer: (C)

When wrist extension is absent after a C5 SCI, the main challenge for feeding is achieving a stable grasp and control of utensils without relying on wrist movement. A universal cuff held around the hand, combined with built-up utensils, gives a larger, easier-to-grip surface and stabilizes the hand so the person can hold and maneuver utensils more securely. A plate guard helps keep food on the plate and guides the utensil, reducing spills and the need for precise wrist alignment. Setup assistance ensures the meal is arranged to minimize reaching or awkward motions, increasing the likelihood of successful self-feeding. Other options don’t address these core challenges as effectively. Standard utensils with no modification require a firmer, more precise grip and some wrist action that isn’t available. A rocker knife needs wrist motion to rock through food, which may be limited or absent here. An automatic feeder alone can help with intake but doesn’t improve grip, stability, or plate control, so it won’t maximize independent feeding.

When wrist extension is absent after a C5 SCI, the main challenge for feeding is achieving a stable grasp and control of utensils without relying on wrist movement. A universal cuff held around the hand, combined with built-up utensils, gives a larger, easier-to-grip surface and stabilizes the hand so the person can hold and maneuver utensils more securely. A plate guard helps keep food on the plate and guides the utensil, reducing spills and the need for precise wrist alignment. Setup assistance ensures the meal is arranged to minimize reaching or awkward motions, increasing the likelihood of successful self-feeding.

Other options don’t address these core challenges as effectively. Standard utensils with no modification require a firmer, more precise grip and some wrist action that isn’t available. A rocker knife needs wrist motion to rock through food, which may be limited or absent here. An automatic feeder alone can help with intake but doesn’t improve grip, stability, or plate control, so it won’t maximize independent feeding.