Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Trauma Practice Test

When assessing a head injury patient, what is the most reliable parameter to gauge improvement or deterioration?

1. Change in pupillary reaction

2. Monitor blood pressure

3. Observe breathing patterns

4. Monitor level of consciousness

The correct answer is: Change in pupillary reaction

When assessing a head injury patient, the most reliable parameter to gauge improvement or deterioration is the change in pupillary reaction. Pupillary reactions are controlled by the autonomic nervous system and can provide crucial information about the patient's neurological status. Changes in pupil size, equality, and reaction to light can indicate potential changes in intracranial pressure and neurological function. Monitoring pupillary reactions is a key component of assessing and managing head injuries in trauma patients. While monitoring blood pressure, observing breathing patterns, and monitoring the level of consciousness are also important in the assessment of trauma patients, changes in pupillary reaction remain the most reliable parameter to assess neurological status and detect any deterioration or improvement in a head injury patient.