A patient who is severely brain damaged has decerebrate posturing with extended extremities. The nurse understands that damage most likely occurred in which area of the brain?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decerebrate posturing (extension of extremities) is an indication of damage in the brain stem. The cerebellum controls coordination and balance, the cerebrum is responsible for higher cognitive functions, and the hypothalamus regulates autonomic functions and hormone secretion. None of these areas are directly responsible for motor function of the extremities.

A Patient Who Is Severely Brain Damaged Has Decerebrate Posturing