What is the primary reason for performing a Romberg test during a neurological assessment?

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CNS Vital Signs Assessment Questions

Question 1 of 5

What is the primary reason for performing a Romberg test during a neurological assessment?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The Romberg test is primarily performed to evaluate balance and coordination by assessing the proprioceptive function of the lower extremities. This test helps identify sensory ataxia, a condition where there is a loss of proprioception leading to impaired balance. Testing cranial nerve function (Choice B) involves different assessments, such as cranial nerve examination. Muscle strength (Choice C) is evaluated through manual muscle testing, not the Romberg test. Reflexes (Choice D) are typically assessed using tests like deep tendon reflexes, not the Romberg test. Thus, the correct answer is A as it aligns with the purpose and methodology of the Romberg test.

Question 2 of 5

A physical therapist evaluates a patient with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. Which intervention is MOST appropriate to improve range of motion?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Joint mobilization. Joint mobilization involves skilled passive movement techniques applied to a joint to restore motion. In adhesive capsulitis, there is restricted motion due to adhesions within the joint capsule. Joint mobilization helps break down these adhesions, improving range of motion. Electrical stimulation (B) and ultrasound therapy (C) may help with pain management but do not directly address the joint restriction. Postural training (D) may be beneficial for overall shoulder function but is not the most direct intervention for improving range of motion in adhesive capsulitis.

Question 3 of 5

Which assessment finding is most consistent with a diagnosis of arterial insufficiency?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - Dependent rubor and cool skin. Arterial insufficiency is characterized by poor blood flow to the extremities, resulting in decreased oxygen supply and tissue damage. Dependent rubor (redness when legs are in a dependent position) and cool skin are indicative of decreased arterial blood flow. Brown discoloration (choice A) typically indicates chronic venous insufficiency. Pitting edema (choice C) is associated with venous insufficiency and heart failure. Warm, erythematous skin (choice D) is more indicative of inflammation or infection, rather than arterial insufficiency.

Question 4 of 5

During a skin assessment, the nurse observes a patient's mole and notes that it has an irregular border, varied colors, and a diameter of 8 mm. What is the appropriate action?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Refer the patient for further evaluation. The patient's mole exhibits characteristics associated with melanoma, such as irregular border, varied colors, and a diameter larger than 6 mm (8 mm in this case). Referring the patient for further evaluation by a dermatologist or healthcare provider specializing in skin assessments is crucial for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment if necessary. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because ignoring or delaying evaluation of suspicious moles can lead to potential complications or missed opportunities for early intervention in case of skin cancer.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is auscultating the lungs and hears low-pitched, soft sounds over the peripheral lung fields. How should this finding be documented?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Vesicular breath sounds. These are low-pitched, soft sounds heard over the peripheral lung fields during normal breathing. This finding should be documented as vesicular breath sounds because they are expected in healthy individuals. Choice A: Bronchial breath sounds are high-pitched and loud, heard over the trachea and large airways, not the peripheral lung fields. Choice B: Bronchovesicular breath sounds are a mix of bronchial and vesicular sounds, typically heard over the mainstem bronchi, not the peripheral lung fields. Choice D: Adventitious breath sounds refer to abnormal lung sounds like crackles or wheezes, not the soft, low-pitched sounds described in the scenario.

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