States of Altered Consciousness

Question 1

Unarousable; no response to strong stimuli, including strong pinching of the Achilles tendon

Answer 1

Coma

Question 2

Arousable only by strong stimuli, including strong pinching of the Achilles tendon

Answer 2

Stupor

Question 3

Sleeping more than awake; drowsy and confused when awake.

Answer 3

Obtunded

Question 4

Complete loss of consciousness, without alteration of vital functions. Distinguished from coma by the following signs: spontaneous eye opening, regular sleep/wake cycles, and normal respiratory patterns.

Answer 4

Vegetative state

Question 5

Severely altered consciousness with at least one behavioral sign of consciousness. Signs include following simple commands, gestural or verbal yes/no responses, intelligible speech, and movements or affective behaviors that are not reflexive.

Answer 5

Minimally conscious state

Question 6

Brief loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood pressure.

Answer 6

Syncope

Question 7

Reduced attention, orientation, and perception, associated with confused ideas, hallucinations, and agitation. usually reversible by treating the cause: causes include medical conditions, ingested substances, or withdrawal from alcohol or certain medications.

Answer 7

Delirium