The nurse asks the patient to stand with feet together, arms resting at the sides, with eyes open and then with the eyes closed. Which response by the patient indicates a problem in the cerebellum?
A) Maintains balance when eyes are open, but loses balance with eyes closed
B) Is unable to stand upright after turning around in a circle once
C) Steps sideways when standing with feet together and eyes closed
D) Sways slightly and maintains upright posture with feet together

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Option C is an abnormal response documented as a "positive Romberg" and indicates cerebellar dysfunction. Option A is an abnormal response, but is indicative of a proprioceptive problem rather than a cerebellar problem. Losing balance is an abnormal response, but turning in a circle is not a part of the Romberg test. Option D is an expected response documented as a "negative Romberg," indicating appropriate cerebellar function for balance.

The Nurse Asks the Patient to Stand with Feet Together