The nurse is caring for a comatose client. The nurse knows they should assess the client's motor response. Which method may the nurse use to assess the motor response?
A) Observing the reaction of pupils to light
B) Observing the client's response to painful stimulus
C) Using the Romberg test
D) Assessing the client's sensitivity to temperature, touch, and pain

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assessing the client's response to painful stimulus is the most appropriate method to evaluate motor response in a comatose client. In this case, the nurse would assess if the client exhibits withdrawal, flexion or extension to the painful stimulus. Option A is not an appropriate method to assess motor response, as it evaluates pupillary response. Option C is used to assess for balance and proprioception, while option D evaluates sensory response.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Comatose Client