The nurse is examining an older female client and suspects that she has a dysfunction in her hip region. Which procedure should the nurse perform to further assess for hip dysfunction?

A) Paresthesia: Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, pricking, or numbness, typically without an external stimulus. The client's ability to discriminate two points at specific distances on the fingertips and palms does not indicate abnormal sensations or paresthesia.

B) Rebound reaction to the needle points: A rebound reaction would involve a delayed response or heightened sensitivity following the removal of a stimulus. This test does not measure rebound reactions but rather the ability to discriminate two separate points.

C) Normal sensory finding: The ability to sense two points at a distance of 3 mm on the fingertips and 10 mm on the palms is within the normal range for two-point discrimination. The fingertips typically have a higher density of sensory receptors and thus can discriminate smaller distances between two points, whereas the palms have fewer receptors and require a greater distance to discern two points.

D) Marginal decline in sensory function: The described ability to sense two points at these specific distances does not indicate a decline in sensory function. It aligns with normal findings for a middle-aged adult.

A) Abduct each hip while the client is supine:
While assessing hip abduction can provide information about hip joint mobility, it may not be the most appropriate initial assessment for hip dysfunction. This action primarily evaluates the range of motion but may not specifically target dysfunction in the hip region.

B) Flex the hip and knee while standing:
Flexing the hip and knee while the client is standing can help assess hip function, particularly in weight-bearing positions. This action can reveal limitations in hip mobility and detect dysfunction such as pain or weakness during movement.

C) Observe balance while the client stands:
Observing balance while the client stands is important for assessing overall lower extremity function, including the hips. However, it may not specifically target dysfunction in the hip region and may provide more general information about mobility and stability.

D) Inspect gluteal folds for symmetry:
Inspecting gluteal folds for symmetry can help identify asymmetry or abnormalities in the hip region, but it may not provide direct information about hip dysfunction. This action is more focused on assessing external appearance rather than functional movement or mobility.