A patient is stuporous but reacts by withdrawing from painful stimuli. Which term is most appropriate for this patient?

Semicomatose

Somnolent

Lethargic

Comatose

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Semicomatose:

This term suggests a state between consciousness and coma. A patient who is semicomatose may exhibit some level of responsiveness but is typically unresponsive or only responds to intense stimuli.

B. Somnolent:

Somnolence refers to a state of drowsiness or sleepiness. A somnolent patient may appear sleepy, have difficulty staying awake, and may be slow to respond to stimuli. However, the withdrawal from painful stimuli described in the scenario suggests a higher level of responsiveness than what would typically be expected in a somnolent state.

C. Lethargic:

Lethargy describes a state of reduced alertness or responsiveness. A lethargic patient may appear drowsy, sluggish, and have diminished responses to stimuli. The description of the patient as stuporous (having a decreased level of consciousness) but still reacting by withdrawing from painful stimuli aligns with the characteristics of lethargy.

D. Comatose:

Coma refers to a state of profound unconsciousness where the patient is unresponsive to all stimuli, including painful stimuli. A comatose patient does not demonstrate any purposeful movement or response to stimuli. Since the patient in the scenario exhibits some response to painful stimuli by withdrawing, they do not meet the criteria for being comatose.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Bradycardia, hypertension, and widening pulse pressure

This combination of symptoms is characteristic of Cushing's triad. Bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypertension (elevated blood pressure), and widening pulse pressure (difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) are indicative of increased ICP, specifically resulting in the compression of brain structures that regulate vital functions.

B. Widening pulse pressure, headache, and seizure

While headache and seizure may occur in patients with increased ICP, widening pulse pressure alone is not sufficient to meet the criteria of Cushing's triad. The presence of bradycardia and hypertension, along with widening pulse pressure, is more indicative of Cushing's triad.

C. Hypertension, tachycardia, and headache

Hypertension and headache may occur in patients with increased ICP, but the absence of bradycardia and widening pulse pressure makes this option less characteristic of Cushing's triad.

D. Hypotension, tachycardia, and narrowing pulse pressure

Hypotension (low blood pressure) and narrowing pulse pressure are not typically associated with Cushing's triad. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) may occur in response to increased ICP, but it is usually accompanied by bradycardia rather than hypotension.

A. Extension of the extremities B. Pronation of the hands C. Plantar flexion of the legs D. External rotation of the lower extremities

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Extension of the extremities

Extension of the extremities is not consistent with decorticate posturing. Instead, it is more indicative of decerebrate posturing, where both the upper and lower extremities are typically extended.

B. Pronation of the hands

Pronation of the hands is not typically associated with decorticate posturing. In decorticate posturing, the hands are usually flexed with the wrists and fingers pointing towards the body.

C. Plantar flexion of the legs

Plantar flexion of the legs characteristic of decorticate posturing. Decorticate posturing mainly involves plantar flexion of the feet.

D. External rotation of the lower extremities

External rotation of the lower extremities is also not typically associated with decorticate posturing. In decorticate posturing, the lower extremities may exhibit extension or internal rotation, but external rotation is not a characteristic feature.

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A patient is stuporous but reacts by withdrawing from painful stimuli. Which term is most appropriate for this patient?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which three symptoms are characteristic of Cushing triad associated with increased ICP?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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