Which motor response on the GCS corresponds to withdrawing from pain?

Which motor response on the GCS corresponds to withdrawing from pain?

• A. 6
• B. 5
• C. 4
• D. 3

Answer: (C)

In the Glasgow Coma Scale, the motor response described as withdrawing from pain is the protective, quick pulling away of the limb from a painful stimulus. This reflexive, non-purposeful withdrawal indicates a functional but limited motor response. It’s distinct from localizing pain, which is a more purposeful movement toward the source to remove it, and from abnormal postures like flexion (decorticate) or extension (decerebrate). Obedience to commands reflects the highest motor function, while a lack of any movement indicates no motor response. So, the act of withdrawing the limb from the painful stimulus best matches this motor response category.

In the Glasgow Coma Scale, the motor response described as withdrawing from pain is the protective, quick pulling away of the limb from a painful stimulus. This reflexive, non-purposeful withdrawal indicates a functional but limited motor response. It’s distinct from localizing pain, which is a more purposeful movement toward the source to remove it, and from abnormal postures like flexion (decorticate) or extension (decerebrate). Obedience to commands reflects the highest motor function, while a lack of any movement indicates no motor response. So, the act of withdrawing the limb from the painful stimulus best matches this motor response category.