A 70-year-old man walks in the office unassisted and is swaying from one side to the other. Which of the following screening tests should be used to identify cerebellar function in this patient?
Rapid alternating movements and finger-to-nose tests
Balancing on one foot with eyes closed and copying a polygon
Stereognosis and Romberg tests
Romberg and Weber tests
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is correct. Rapid alternating movements (dysdiadochokinesia) and the finger-to-nose test assess cerebellar coordination and fine motor control, which are essential components in evaluating cerebellar function.
Choice B reason: Balancing and copying a polygon evaluate balance and visuospatial skills but are less specific for cerebellar dysfunction.
Choice C reason: Stereognosis assesses sensory function, not cerebellar function. The Romberg test evaluates proprioception rather than cerebellar coordination.
Choice D reason: The Romberg test assesses sensory input for balance, and the Weber test evaluates hearing. Neither is specific for cerebellar function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This question is aimed at detecting delusions or ideas of reference, which are associated with psychotic disorders rather than obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is not intended to assess obsessions or compulsions.
Choice B reason: This question directly targets the hallmark features of obsessive-compulsive disorder, namely recurrent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts (obsessions) or urges, which may lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Asking about unwanted images, thoughts, or urges is the most appropriate way to elicit information on obsessions and compulsions.
Choice C reason: This question assesses specific phobias or situational anxiety, as it focuses on anxiety triggered by particular objects, places, or social contexts. It does not capture the intrusive, repetitive thoughts characteristic of obsessions.
Choice D reason: This question evaluates health anxiety or hypochondriasis. While these conditions involve worry, they are not related to the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors seen in obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and persistent concern about having additional attacks. In this case, the patient’s panic attacks are triggered specifically by flying, not occurring unexpectedly in multiple situations. Therefore, the attacks are situationally bound rather than generalized or spontaneous.
Choice B reason: Specific phobia, situational type, is characterized by intense fear or anxiety triggered by a specific object or situation, such as flying, that leads to avoidance behavior. The patient’s avoidance of air travel and repeated panic attacks during flights are consistent with this diagnosis.
Choice C reason: Acute stress disorder occurs after exposure to a traumatic event and involves intrusive memories, dissociation, or hyperarousal. The patient’s symptoms are not related to a recent trauma and are specifically associated with air travel, making this diagnosis less appropriate.
Choice D reason: Social anxiety disorder involves fear or anxiety about social situations in which the person may be judged or scrutinized. The patient’s anxiety is related to flying, not social evaluation, so this diagnosis does not fit the clinical picture.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.