According to functional expectations for a C5 ASIA A SCI, what is the patient's expected level of independence with performing pressure reliefs?

According to functional expectations for a C5 ASIA A SCI, what is the patient's expected level of independence with performing pressure reliefs?

• A. Independent
• B. Dependent
• C. Requires moderate assistance
• D. Requires maximum assistance

Answer: (A)

The skill being tested is whether a person with a C5 cervical SCI at AIS A level can independently perform a wheelchair pressure relief. Independence for this maneuver relies on having enough upper-limb control to push up and weight-shift in the chair. At C5, there is usable shoulder and elbow flexion, which typically allows a self-initiated push from the armrests to lift and relieve pressure, especially when the wheelchair is properly configured (cushioning, tilt-in-space, etc.). This means the patient can perform the relief without another person assisting. Keep in mind, independence here is specific to this task; other activities, like transfers or mobility in different environments, may still require assistance.

The skill being tested is whether a person with a C5 cervical SCI at AIS A level can independently perform a wheelchair pressure relief. Independence for this maneuver relies on having enough upper-limb control to push up and weight-shift in the chair. At C5, there is usable shoulder and elbow flexion, which typically allows a self-initiated push from the armrests to lift and relieve pressure, especially when the wheelchair is properly configured (cushioning, tilt-in-space, etc.). This means the patient can perform the relief without another person assisting. Keep in mind, independence here is specific to this task; other activities, like transfers or mobility in different environments, may still require assistance.