During the assessment of a patient after an injury, which of the following findings may point to significant neurological injury?
A) Fractures of several long bones
B) A Glasgow Coma Scale that is below normal
C) Difficulty breathing
D) A depressed skull fracture

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although all of the findings listed in this question indicate serious injury, a diminished Glasgow Coma Scale and a depressed skull fracture are most often associated with serious injury to the central nervous system. The Glasgow Coma Scale identifies the ability of a patient to open his or her eyes, speak, and move normally and purposefully. Patients with impaired consciousness (that is, with severe neurological diseases or injuries) often have closed eyes that will not open even with vigorous stimulation, have slurred or absent speech, and do not move with purpose or intent. A depressed fracture of the skull may impinge on the brain or disrupt the flow of blood through cerebral vessels. It is a more probable sign of significant brain injury than a fracture of a long bone (like the femur) or shortness of breath (dyspnea).

During the Assessment of a Patient After an Injury, Which