Pupils criterion: which option states the requirement?

• A. Pupils reactive to light
• B. Pupils not assessable
• C. Both pupils non-reactive to light
• D. Both pupils, if assessable, are non-reactive to light

Answer: (D)

Pupillary response to light is a quick check of brain function, and the Pupils criterion is met only when you can actually assess the pupils and they are non-reactive to light in both eyes. This reflects a concerning neurologic status and helps standardize what qualifies as meeting that criterion. If a pupil cannot be assessed due to injury or other factors, you can’t apply this criterion. If the pupils react to light or one pupil is non-reactive while the other is reactive, the criterion isn’t met. That’s why the option stating that both pupils, if assessable, are non-reactive to light best fits the requirement.