When drawing a blood sample from a client with decerebrate posturing, which reaction is expected?

When drawing a blood sample from a client with decerebrate posturing, which reaction is expected?

• A. The client flexes his arms
• B. The client rigidly extends his arms
• C. The client sits up
• D. The client withdraws the arm

Answer: (B)

Decerebrate posturing reflects severe brainstem injury and shows extensor rigidity of the limbs. The arms are held in a straight, extended position with the wrists pronated, and the legs also extend. Because the extensor pathways dominate, attempts to flex or withdraw the arm are not observed; instead, the arm remains rigidly extended during a blood draw. This contrasts with decorticate posturing, where the arms are flexed and brought toward the body, and with normal or voluntary movements where the patient would sit up or withdraw the arm.

Decerebrate posturing reflects severe brainstem injury and shows extensor rigidity of the limbs. The arms are held in a straight, extended position with the wrists pronated, and the legs also extend. Because the extensor pathways dominate, attempts to flex or withdraw the arm are not observed; instead, the arm remains rigidly extended during a blood draw. This contrasts with decorticate posturing, where the arms are flexed and brought toward the body, and with normal or voluntary movements where the patient would sit up or withdraw the arm.