The nurse is performing the diagnostic positions test (6 Cardinal Gazes). Which result is a normal finding?
Nystagmus in extreme superior gaze
Slight amount of lid lag when moving the eyes from a superior to an inferior position
Convergence of the eyes
Parallel/synchronized movement of both eyes
The Correct Answer is D
A. Nystagmus in extreme superior gaze: A few beats of nystagmus in extreme lateral gaze may be normal, but sustained nystagmus, especially in superior gaze, suggests neurological impairment such as vestibular dysfunction or multiple sclerosis.
B. Slight amount of lid lag when moving the eyes from a superior to an inferior position: Lid lag, where the upper eyelid lags behind the downward movement of the eye, is often associated with hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves' disease). It is not a normal finding in the diagnostic positions test.
C. Convergence of the eyes: Convergence is assessed when a person focuses on a near object, such as during an accommodation test. The diagnostic positions test evaluates extraocular muscle function and cranial nerves III, IV, and VI, focusing on coordinated movement rather than convergence.
D. Parallel/synchronized movement of both eyes: The normal finding in the diagnostic positions test is smooth, coordinated movement of both eyes in all six cardinal directions without lagging, misalignment, or significant nystagmus. This indicates intact extraocular muscles and proper cranial nerve function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Behind with the nurse's hands placed firmly around his neck: This approach may be perceived as threatening or invasive, potentially increasing the patient's apprehension and discomfort. It is important to maintain a respectful and gentle approach, especially when working with a patient who may already feel uneasy.
B. Behind with hands placed on throat: Similar to option A, examining from behind and placing hands on the throat may cause anxiety and discomfort for the patient, particularly if they are not familiar with the procedure. This method does not provide a clear line of sight or reassurance for the patient.
C. The front with the nurse's thumbs placed on either side of his trachea and his head tilted forward: This technique is the most appropriate approach for examining the thyroid gland. Positioning the patient in front allows for better communication and visibility. Placing the thumbs on either side of the trachea is a standard method for palpating the thyroid, and having the patient tilt their head forward can help relax the neck muscles, making the examination more comfortable. Additionally, this approach allows the nurse to explain the procedure more easily, even with language barriers.
D. Have the patient perform the exam: While patient involvement in their care can be empowering, asking the patient to perform the exam may not be appropriate for a thyroid examination, as the nurse must assess the gland's size, consistency, and any potential nodules. This approach may also lead to further anxiety for the patient, who may not know how to perform the exam correctly.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. I: Cranial nerve I, the olfactory nerve, is responsible for the sense of smell and is not involved in visual acuity; it can be tested by asking the patient to identify familiar scents.
B. II: Cranial nerve II, the optic nerve, is responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. It is directly involved in measuring visual acuity, as it enables the nurse to assess how well the patient can see and interpret visual stimuli; visual acuity is commonly tested using the Snellen chart.
C. IV: Cranial nerve IV, the trochlear nerve, controls the superior oblique muscle, which is responsible for downward and lateral eye movement. It can be assessed by having the patient follow an object in a downward diagonal direction.
D. III: Cranial nerve III, the oculomotor nerve, controls most of the eye's movements, including constriction of the pupil and maintaining an open eyelid. It is assessed by evaluating the patient's ability to follow objects in all directions and checking for pupil response to light and accommodation.
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