Assessment
This assessment finding is controlled by the cerebral function, a higher brain funtions
Mental status
Lowest GCS possible
3
This is the term used for normal LOC
Moves limb to command
Obeys commands
Manifestation of Hydrocephalus
Large OFC
When assessing an infants mental status name three things you may assess
Any of the following: Alertness, level of activity, response to environment, quality of cry, feeding patterns, presence or absence of primitive reflexes, language skills
Name the 3 parts of the GCS
Eye opening response, Verbal response, Motor response
Movements are purposeful when stimulated, does not follow commands or speak coherently
Semicomatose
Moves toward painful stimuli, purposeful movement
Localizes pain
Can indicate impaired brain growth
Small OFC
The findings of this assessment may be described as loud and energetic or quiet and weak
Cry
This assessment finding will give the patient 3 points in the verbal assessment of the GCS
Inappropriate words
Very hard to arouse, inconsistently may follow simple commands or speak single words or short phrases
Stuporous
No Movement
Flaccid
Cranial sutures that do this may indicate inadequate brain growth
Overriding
The best time to assess mental status for older children is:
This function of the neurological system is controlled by the upper brainstem, hypothalamus and thalamus.
Drowsy but follows simple commands when stimulated
Lethargic
Extension of upper and lower extremities
Abnormal extension
Closure of the posterior fontanel is usually by a few months of age, the anterior however remains open until when?
Name 4 of the 6 parts of the mental status assessment for older children
What is the GCS score for the child with the following assessment findings:
Eye opening response- spontaneous
Verbal response- Incomprehensible speech
Motor response- Withdraws in response to pain
10
May respond with reflexive posturing when stimulated or may have no response to any stimulus
Comatose
Upper extremities flex, draw toward midline, lower extremities extend and internally rotate with plantar flexion of feet
Abnormal Flexion