ANSWERS

1. Define paresis.
   Limb weakness that arises as a result of injury to the brain or spinal cord.
2. Define paralysis.
   Complete loss of function of an area of the body.
3. What is the term that describes hind limb paralysis?
   Paraplegia.
4. What is paraparesis?
   Incomplete paralysis affecting the hind limbs.
5. What is the term that describes the paralysis of all 4 limbs?
   Tetraplegia (or quadriplegia).
6. What is the term that describes paralysis involving a forelimb and a hind limb on the same side of the body?
   Hemiplegia.
7. List nursing considerations that must be taken into account when nursing a paralysed animal.
   • Ensure plenty of soft deep bedding to avoid decubitus ulcers.
   • Be aware that assistance will be necessary with urination, defecation and grooming.
   • Plenty of reassurance and TLC will be necessary.
   • Physiotherapy may prove beneficial.
   • Be patient and advise owners that recovery may be very time consuming.
   • Use a sling to assist larger dogs; never try to lift a dog alone that is too heavy.