The nurse learns in report that a client is stuporous. Which assessment should the nurse perform to confirm this report?

A. Observe for any facial asymmetry. Facial asymmetry may indicate neurological conditions such as stroke or Bell’s palsy, but it does not confirm a stuporous state. A stuporous client has significantly reduced consciousness and requires assessment of their response to stimuli. B. Assess for a positive Romberg sign. The Romberg test evaluates balance and proprioception, which requires the client to stand unaided. A stuporous client is unlikely to follow commands or maintain balance, making this test inappropriate for assessing their level of consciousness. C. Check the pupillary response to light. While assessing pupillary reaction is useful for evaluating neurological function, it does not directly confirm stupor. Pupillary responses may remain intact even in clients with altered consciousness. D. Determine the response to stimuli. A stuporous client has a severely altered level of consciousness and responds only to vigorous or painful stimuli, such as a sternal rub or nail bed pressure. This is the most appropriate assessment to confirm the report of stupor.