Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What is a common sign of a basilar skull fracture?

1. High blood pressure

2. Raccoon eyes

3. Decerebrate posturing

4. Warm, dry skin

The correct answer is: Raccoon eyes

A basilar skull fracture often results in specific visible signs due to the nature of the injury, including the characteristic appearance known as "raccoon eyes." This term describes bruising around the eyes, which can occur when blood leaks into the soft tissues surrounding the orbits; this is a direct result of the fracture affecting the base of the skull or the areas near the eyes. This phenomenon is particularly significant because it indicates not only the severity of the injury but also implies that there may be involvement of the cranial cavity, potentially leading to complications such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage or other neurological disturbances. While other signs like decerebrate posturing may indicate severe brain injury or impairment, they are not exclusive to basilar skull fractures and are more generalized symptoms of increased intracranial pressure or severe neurologic compromise. High blood pressure and warm, dry skin are unrelated to basilar skull fractures and are characteristic of different medical conditions or stimuli. Thus, raccoon eyes stand out as a definitive and common sign associated directly with this type of fracture.