North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

In which position would you find decorticate posturing?

1. Extended arms and flexed legs

2. Flexed arms and extended legs

3. Flexed arms and legs

4. Extended arms and legs

The correct answer is: Extended arms and flexed legs

Decorticate posturing is characterized by flexion of the arms and extension of the legs. This type of posturing often indicates severe brain injury or dysfunction affecting the pathways in the brain responsible for voluntary movement. It typically results in the arms coming inward to the core of the body while the legs are straightened out. In the scenario of decorticate posturing, the flexed arms suggest that the individual is attempting to protect or bring their limbs closer to the body while the extended legs indicate a loss of control or response at the lower extremities. This posturing is a significant indicator used by medical professionals to assess the level of consciousness and potential neurological injuries in a patient. Understanding these positions is essential for EMTs and other medical personnel when evaluating and prioritizing patient care.