Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following can be achieved by a patient with a C5 injury who has functioning biceps and shoulder muscles?

1. Dressing the upper extremity, writing, and typing with devices

2. Walking independently

3. Driving a standard vehicle

4. Cooking meals independently

The correct answer is: Dressing the upper extremity, writing, and typing with devices

A patient with a C5 spinal cord injury retains some degree of function in the upper body due to intact biceps and shoulder muscles. This level of injury impacts the ability to utilize muscles below the shoulders, but individuals can still engage in activities that involve remaining upper limb function. Dressing the upper extremity is particularly achievable because at C5, patients can use their shoulder and bicep muscles to reach to a certain extent, allowing them to manipulate clothing and accessories for their upper body. Writing and typing with devices is also possible, as adaptive technologies can be used. With specific modifications or assistive devices, patients can compensate for their limited mobility to engage in these tasks. Walking independently is not feasible for a patient with a C5 injury, as lower limbs are paralyzed, and they lack the necessary nerve function and muscle control to ambulate. Driving a standard vehicle would similarly be out of reach, as this typically requires the use of lower extremities and comprehensive control of the vehicle, which is not attainable at this level of injury without specialized modifications. Cooking meals independently would pose significant challenges as it usually requires both standing and the use of lower extremities for mobility and balance, along with the ability to safely manage heat and kitchen appliances. The activities