The classic manifestations associated with Parkinson's disease are tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. The nurse understands that a finding related to postural instability includes which of the following?
Retropulsion
Impaired handwriting
Muscle soreness and pain
Slow movements
The Correct Answer is A
A. Retropulsion is a classic manifestation of postural instability in Parkinson's disease. It refers to a tendency to lose balance and fall backward, especially when attempting to initiate walking or when challenged with external forces.
B. Impaired handwriting, also known as micrographia, is associated with bradykinesia (slowness of movement) in Parkinson's disease. It manifests as progressively smaller and more cramped handwriting.
C. Muscle soreness and pain can occur in Parkinson's disease, but they are not typically directly associated with postural instability. They may occur due to rigidity (muscle stiffness) or abnormal postures maintained over time.
D. Slow movements, or bradykinesia, are a hallmark feature of Parkinson's disease and are characterized by a gradual reduction in the speed and fluidity of voluntary movements. While related to motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease, slow movements are not specific to postural instability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The soles of the feet are not typically assessed for cyanosis because they are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is best evaluated in areas where mucous membranes are visible.
B. Similar to the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is not typically visible on the palms unless there are severe systemic circulation issues.
C. The oral mucosa (inside the mouth) is a reliable area to assess for central cyanosis. The nurse can inspect the lips, tongue, and buccal mucosa for a bluish discoloration, which indicates decreased arterial oxygen saturation.
D. The nail beds are also a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. The nurse can assess the color of the nail beds and look for bluish discoloration, which can be more apparent in darker-skinned individuals compared to the lips and oral mucosa.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects, especially in the head. Most headaches associated with nitroglycerin are mild and transient. Patients are generally advised to continue using the medication as prescribed unless the headache is severe or persistent.
B. Nitroglycerin tablets are used for the immediate relief of angina symptoms. If the first tablet does not adequately relieve chest pain within 5 minutes, the patient can take a second tablet. If the pain persists after the second tablet, emergency medical attention should be sought. However, it's important to note that the maximum number of tablets that can be taken within a short period should be specified by the healthcare provider, typically 2 or 3 tablets in 15 to 30 minutes.
C. Nitroglycerin can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing up. This can lead to dizziness or fainting. Therefore, patients should be advised to stand up slowly after taking nitroglycerin to minimize the risk of falls or injury.
D. Nitroglycerin tablets are sensitive to light, heat, and moisture, which can reduce their effectiveness over time. Therefore, it's recommended to replace nitroglycerin tablets every 3 to 6 months to ensure potency and effectiveness.
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