The nurse is admitting a client with suspected meningitis.During the assessment,the nurse asks the client to flex the chin down toward the chest.The client verbalizes pain and stiffness during this action.The nurse would document this as which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nuchal rigidity is the stiffness and pain in the neck that occurs when the client tries to flex the chin down towards the chest. It is a sign of meningitis and is tested using the Kernig's and Brudzinski's sign. Muscle spasms and neck strain do not accurately reflect the client's condition, and Brudzinski's sign is a different test used to assess for meningitis.

The Nurse Is Admitting a Client with Suspected Meningitis