The Family Nurse Practitioner is performing the physical examination of a client with a suspected neurologic disorder. In addition to assessing other parts of the body, the nurse should assess for neck rigidity. Which method should help the nurse assess for neck rigidity correctly?
A) Moving the head toward both sides
B) Lightly tapping the lower portion of the neck to detect sensation
C) Moving the head and chin toward the chest
D) Gently pressing the bones on the neck

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Moving the head and chin toward the chest is the correct method to assess for neck rigidity. This is known as the Kernig's sign, which is positive in patients with meningitis or other neurologic disorders. Moving the head toward both sides or gently pressing the bones on the neck are not appropriate methods to assess for neck rigidity. Lightly tapping the lower portion of the neck to detect sensation is a method to assess for the presence of a spinal cord injury.

The Family Nurse Practitioner Is Performing the Physical Examination of a Client