PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the key sign associated with meningeal irritation seen in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage?

1. Babinski sign

2. Brudzinski's sign

3. Jolt accentuation

4. Hoffmann's sign

The correct answer is: Brudzinski's sign

Brudzinski's sign is a crucial indicator of meningeal irritation, particularly in cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage. This sign is observed when flexing a patient's neck results in the involuntary lifting of the legs or flexion of the hips and knees. It reflects irritation of the meninges, which often occurs in the context of conditions like subarachnoid hemorrhage, where blood enters the subarachnoid space and can irritate the surrounding tissues. Recognizing Brudzinski's sign can assist clinicians in identifying potential neurological issues arising from increased intracranial pressure or bleeding, supporting the diagnosis and guiding further management strategies. The other signs mentioned, while relevant to other conditions or indicating different neurological issues, do not specifically indicate meningeal irritation associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage.