Question

A nurse is performing a Romberg test during the physical assessment of a client. which of the following techniques should the nurse use?

a) Have the client stand with feet together and arms extended
b) Ask the client to march in place
c) Observe the client's gait while walking
d) Instruct the client to touch their nose with their eyes closed

Answer 1

To perform the Romberg test, the client should stand with feet together and eyes closed to assess balance relying on proprioceptive and inner ear feedback.

Step-by-step explanation:

The technique that the nurse should use to perform the Romberg test during the physical assessment of a client is to have the client stand with feet together. The nurse asks the client to achieve balance and then to close their eyes to assess their ability to maintain this balance without visual input.

This test relies on proprioceptive feedback from the joints and muscles, as well as information from the inner ear. Any change in posture noted during this test may indicate deficiencies in proprioception or issues with the cerebellar function involved in maintaining balance.