Paralysis of all the four extremities is called?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is the correct medical term for paralysis that affects all four limbs: both arms and both legs.
The prefix 'quad' means four, directly corresponding to the involvement of four extremities.
This condition is most commonly caused by an injury to the cervical (neck) region of thespinal cord, which disrupts nerve signals to the entire body below the injury site.
In addition to the limbs, quadriplegia often involves paralysis of the trunk and torso, which can affect breathing and other autonomic functions.

Option B: Hemiplegia refers to paralysis on one vertical half of the body. The prefix 'hemi' means half.
Option C: Monoplegia is paralysis limited to a single limb or a specific region of the body. The prefix 'mono' means one.
Option D: Paraplegia describes paralysis of the lower half of the body, affecting both legs but not the arms.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Terminology for types of paralysis based on the affected body parts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate use of terms like quadriplegia is crucial for clear communication among healthcare professionals, ensuring appropriate care planning for mobility, skin integrity, and respiratory support.
Nurses caring for patients with quadriplegia must be vigilant for complications such as pressure ulcers, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), respiratory infections, and autonomic dysreflexia.
What if? If a patient presented with weakness in both legs but had full function of their arms after a car accident, the correct term would be paraplegia, indicating an injury likely below the cervical spine.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'paralysis of all the four extremities'.
Break down the medical prefixes in the options: 'Quadri-' means four, 'Hemi-' means half, 'Mono-' means one, and 'Para-' relates to the lower half.
Match the prefix 'Quadri-' (four) with the description 'all four extremities'.
This direct correlation identifies Quadriplegia as the correct answer.
Briefly consider the other terms to confirm they describe different patterns of paralysis (one side, one limb, lower body) to solidify your choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Terminology for types of paralysis based on the affected body parts.
Stem keywords: Paralysis, four extremities
Lead-in keywords: is called
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) pp. 597-599, 594-596

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