Which symptom is NOT typically associated with decerebrate posturing?

In the context of decerebrate posturing, the hallmark characteristic is the abnormal extension of the arms. This positioning occurs as a result of severe damage to the brain, specifically affecting areas that control motor functioning. In this posture, the individual’s arms are extended outwards and the legs are typically stiffly extended as well.

A key distinction in decerebrate posturing is the position of the hands. In this condition, the hands are usually not flexed; they tend to remain in an extended position along with the arms. Therefore, the symptom of flexed hands is not associated with decerebrate posturing, making it the correct choice here.

In contrast, the other symptoms mentioned—abnormal extension of the arms, a possible sign of brain herniation, and loss of consciousness—are indeed related to decerebrate posturing. Each of these symptoms indicates significant intracranial pressure and the severe neurological deficiencies that accompany pronounced brain injury.