Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client who has a spinal cord injury at the C5 level. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Ability to shrug shoulders. At the C5 level, the client retains innervation of the upper trapezius muscle, enabling shoulder shrugging. This is due to the specific nerve roots involved at this level. Choices A and C are incorrect as C5 injury does not affect lower extremities or sensation below the clavicles. Choice B is incorrect as respiratory function would be compromised at this level.