The nurse suspects that a client has carpal tunnel syndrome and prepares to conduct the Phalen test. What instructions should the nurse give the client to perform the Phalen test?
Plantarflex the foot
Dorsiflex the foot
Hold both hands back to back while flexing the wrists 90 degrees for 60 seconds
Hyperextend the wrists with the palmar surface of both hands touching, and wait for 60 seconds
The Correct Answer is C
A. Plantarflexion and dorsiflexion refer to movements of the foot and are unrelated to the Phalen test.
B. Hyperextension of the wrists with the palmar surfaces touching is not the correct maneuver for the Phalen test.
C. The Phalen test involves holding both hands back to back while flexing the wrists at a 90- degree angle for about 60 seconds, which may induce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in those affected.
D. Hyperextending the wrists with the palms together doesn’t simulate the stress on the median nerve in the same way as the Phalen test.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Loss of subcutaneous fat might contribute to changes in appearance but is not primarily responsible for the decrease in height with aging.
B. Reduced spinal flexibility may contribute to posture changes but doesn’t sufficiently explain the decrease in height.
C. With aging, the intervertebral discs and cartilage between spinal bones wear down, leading to a decrease in height due to changes in the spine's structure.
D. Thickening of intervertebral discs is not a typical occurrence with aging and does not explain the decrease in height.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Dull throbbing pain increasing with rest might suggest a strain or sprain but not necessarily a fracture.
B. A dull ache could indicate various issues but may not specifically point to a fracture.
C. Sharp pain that worsens with movement is a common indicator of a fracture due to the bones moving against each other.
D. Deep pain in the wrist could signify deep tissue injury but doesn't distinctly indicate a fracture without other signs.
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