Journal of emergency nursing : JEN : official publication of the Emergency Department Nurses Association
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During initial assessment and care of this patient, an element of disbelief of the patient's inability to move his extremities was expressed. Manifestation of a severe injury such as that affecting the spinal cord after an extended period of time would be unusual. All other causes of altered motor function should be promptly investigated. ⋯ We are impressed with the number of mechanisms and medications that can contribute to the development of rhabdomyolysis. Caregivers are at risk of assuming that the patient's condition fits the category to which they have been triaged. Keeping an open mind concerning the range of rationale for patient signs and symptoms is important.