Which technique will the nurse use to assess the patient's olfactory nerve?

Choice A rationale

Ankylosis refers to the stiffening and immobility of a joint due to fusion of the bones. This condition is typically caused by chronic inflammation or injury, leading to bone remodeling and eventual bridging of the joint space. It is a pathological process that restricts movement and is not a normal physiological adaptation during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by rotation of the vertebrae. It can be congenital, neuromuscular, or idiopathic. This spinal deformity deviates from the normal sagittal plane alignment and is not a typical physiological compensatory mechanism for the gravid uterus.

Choice C rationale

Kyphosis is an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a hunched back appearance. While some degree of thoracic kyphosis is normal, an exaggerated curve can be pathological. It does not represent the compensatory postural change seen in pregnant women, which primarily involves the lumbar region.

Choice D rationale

Lordosis is an increased inward curvature of the lumbar spine. During pregnancy, as the uterus enlarges anteriorly, the woman's center of gravity shifts forward. To maintain balance and prevent falling, the abdominal muscles stretch and the lumbar spine accentuates its inward curve, which is known as lordosis, a physiological adaptation.

Choice A rationale

While palpation is a critical skill, this statement does not directly complete the given sentence which defines palpation as a technique. The existing sentence establishes the "what" of palpation, and the completion should elaborate on "how" it's performed or its direct characteristics.

Choice B rationale

Palpation certainly helps identify abnormalities, but this statement describes a benefit or outcome of the technique, not the core method itself as described in the initial sentence. The sentence sets up the physical action, not its diagnostic utility.

Choice C rationale

This choice logically completes the sentence by explaining the *methodology* of palpation, directly following the description of the senses involved and what is being assessed. It specifies that the technique involves "careful and systematic touching of the body," which directly relates to the physical act of assessment.

Choice D rationale

Proper palpation technique ensures accurate examinations, but this statement focuses on the *quality* of the technique rather than describing the technique itself. The initial sentence defines the technique; the completion should expand on its execution, not its outcome. .