The nurse asks a patient who has suffered a cerebral vascular accident (CVA) to complete the heel-to-shin test. What is the nurse testing for with this technique?

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The heel-to-shin test is used to assess the patient's coordination. The nurse would have the patient place the heel of one foot on the opposite knee and run the heel down the shin to the ankle. If the patient is able to do this smoothly and accurately, it indicates good coordination. If the patient has difficulty or performs the action awkwardly, it may suggest ataxia, a lack of muscle coordination.

The Nurse Asks a Patient Who Has Suffered a Cerebral