North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Which motor response is characterized by withdrawal from pain?

1. Localizes pain

2. Obeys commands

3. Withdraws pain

4. Abnormal extension

The correct answer is: Withdraws pain

The correct response is characterized by a withdrawal from pain, which reflects a fundamental protective reaction of the body to harmful stimuli. When an individual is exposed to a painful stimulus, the natural instinct is to move away from or withdraw from the source of pain, indicating a primitive and reflexive motor response aimed at safeguarding the individual from further injury. This response is often seen in various neurological assessments where the patient's reaction to pain is evaluated. In this context, "withdraws pain" refers directly to this instinctual reflex, which confirms a basic level of neurological function. It's an important clinical sign that can help EMTs assess a patient's level of consciousness and neurological status in emergency situations. In contrast, other motor responses, such as localizing pain or obeying commands, involve higher brain function and conscious decision-making, while abnormal extension indicates a more severe level of brain dysfunction known as decerebrate posturing, which involves rigidity and extension rather than withdrawal. Understanding these different responses helps EMTs make crucial decisions about patient care and intervention.