To test sensation in a patient who fell from a height and is unresponsive, which method is appropriate?

To assess sensation in an unresponsive patient who has fallen, pinching the foot and observing for movement in the leg serves as a valuable method for evaluating neurological function. This technique engages the pain perception pathways and allows you to determine if there is any nerve function present. Even if the patient is unresponsive, a reflexive movement in response to a painful stimulus can indicate spinal cord and nerve integrity in the affected areas, suggesting that some level of neurological function is still present.

This method is particularly useful as it does not rely on the patient's ability to respond verbally or voluntarily, making it suitable for individuals who are unconscious or unresponsive due to an injury. Observing for movement can provide critical information regarding the potential for spinal cord damage and the overall neurological status of the patient.