Nursing Process 1 Test Questions Related

Review Nursing Process 1 Test Questions related questions and content

If a client with increased pressure (ICP) demonstrates decorticate posturing, the nurse will observe:

  • A. Flexion of both upper and lower extremities
  • B. Extension of elbows and knees, plantar flexion of feet, and flexion of the wnsts
  • C. Flexion of elbows, extension of the knees, and plantar flexion of the feet
  • D. Extension of upper extremities, flexion of lower extremities
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because decorticate posturing is characterized by the flexion of elbows, wrists, and fingers, extension of elbows and knees, plantar flexion of feet. This pattern indicates damage to the cerebral hemispheres or internal structures of the brain. In contrast, option A describes decerebrate posturing, which indicates more severe brain damage. Option C is incorrect as it describes a mixed pattern of posturing. Option D is also incorrect as it describes a different type of posturing called decerebrate posturing.