Pupils

What can the diameter and reactivity of a patient's pupils reflect?

The status of the brain's perfusion, oxygenation, and condition.

What does it indicate if a patient's pupils become fixed (dilated or constricted) with no reaction to light?

It is a sign of depressed brain function.

What is the normal pupil reaction to a bright light being introduced and then removed?

Pupils dilate when the light is introduced and constrict when it is removed.

What are two abnormal pupil reactions to light?

Reacting sluggishly instead of briskly, or becoming unequal in size.

What are five potential causes of depressed brain function?

Brain injury, brainstem injury, trauma, stroke, brain tumor, inadequate oxygenation, inadequate perfusion, drugs, or toxins.