When you assess the lower back of an elderly patient who fell, he grimaces and tells you that it hurts when you palpate the injury site. You should recognize which one of the following conditions?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tenderness is defined as pain or discomfort when an injured area is touched or palpated. Since the patient grimaces and reports pain when the injury site of the lower back is palpated, tenderness is the most likely condition present. Pain (A) is a general term and does not provide a specific explanation for the symptoms experienced by the patient. Crepitus (C) refers to a grating or crackling sound or sensation that may be present when bones or cartilage rub together, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Ecchymosis (D) refers to the presence of bruising, which is also not mentioned in the scenario.

When You Assess the Lower Back of an Elderly Patient