What characteristic is expected in a child who is described as obtunded during a neurological assessment?

A child described as obtunded during a neurological assessment typically exhibits a state of decreased alertness and responsiveness. This means the child may appear to be in a sleep-like state but can be aroused with some effort. However, when aroused, the child's interaction and engagement are limited; they do not respond to stimuli as energetically or appropriately as a fully alert child would.

This characteristic of needing stimulation to engage, along with a lack of full attentiveness or responsiveness, aligns directly with what is observed in an obtunded state. The focus here is on the child’s reduced ability to interact effectively with their environment or caregivers, which is critical in understanding the implications for their neurological function and overall health during an assessment.