Which assessment finding indicates a potential head injury?

The presence of unequal pupils is a significant indicator of a potential head injury. This condition, known as anisocoria, can arise when there is damage to the brain or the cranial nerves that control pupil size. It may suggest increased intracranial pressure or traumatic brain injury. When one pupil is larger than the other, it can be particularly concerning and may warrant immediate medical evaluation, as it is often associated with serious conditions that require prompt intervention.

The other options, while they can be important vital signs, are not specific indicators of head injury. Elevated blood pressure might occur in response to pain or stress but does not specifically signal a head injury. Labored breathing could indicate respiratory distress but is not a direct sign of head trauma. Similarly, a decreased heart rate can be associated with various cardiovascular issues or autonomic nervous system responses, but it is not a reliable indicator of head injury on its own. Thus, unequal pupils stand out as a critical finding that should prompt further assessment for possible trauma to the head.