Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

What does flaccid posturing indicate in a neuro assessment?

1. Normal responsiveness to stimuli

2. Common response to discomfort

3. No response to stimuli

4. Alert and oriented state

The correct answer is: No response to stimuli

Flaccid posturing during a neurological assessment indicates a complete lack of muscle tone and responsiveness, which signifies that the child is not responding to stimuli. This is a concerning sign often associated with severe neurological impairment, such as damage to the brain or spinal cord. When a child exhibits flaccidity, they may remain limp without voluntary movement or reaction when stimuli are applied. This state is particularly alarming, as it suggests poor neurological function and may necessitate immediate medical intervention to assess the underlying cause and create a management plan. Such a condition contrasts sharply with other states of responsiveness—like alertness or appropriate reactions to discomfort—further emphasizing the significant implications of observing flaccid posturing in pediatric emergency assessments.