After raising the head of the bed in an autonomic dysreflexia case, what is the second step?

In managing autonomic dysreflexia, the primary goal is to alleviate the triggering source of the episode, often related to bladder distension or bowel impaction. After elevating the head of the bed to help reduce blood pressure and improve cerebral perfusion, the second step involves checking the bladder and bowel.

This is critical because autonomic dysreflexia is commonly triggered by noxious stimuli such as a full bladder or severe constipation. By assessing these factors, the healthcare provider can identify and address the underlying cause, which is vital for alleviating the symptoms and preventing further complications.

While notifying the family, starting intravenous fluids, or providing oxygen therapy may be relevant in certain situations, they do not directly address the immediate cause of autonomic dysreflexia as effectively as checking the bladder and bowel would. Hence, ensuring these areas are evaluated promptly is key in managing the condition.