The nurse is inspecting the gums on a patient and notices redness and bleeding.
Which unexpected finding is present?

Choice A rationale

Lordosis refers to an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, often referred to as swayback. This condition causes the lower back to arch more than normal, leading to a prominent abdomen and buttocks. Lordosis does not affect the thoracic spine and does not cause an exaggerated curvature in that region.

Choice B rationale

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that results in an S- or C-shaped curve. It can occur in the thoracic, lumbar, or cervical regions of the spine. Scoliosis involves a sideways deviation rather than an exaggerated curvature in the thoracic spine.

Choice C rationale

Spinal dysplasia is a broad term that refers to various congenital abnormalities affecting the development of the spine. It includes conditions such as spina bifida, kyphosis, and scoliosis, each with distinct characteristics. The term itself does not specify an exaggerated thoracic curvature.

Choice D rationale

Kyphosis is an exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a rounded or hunched back appearance. This condition is common in elderly individuals and can be caused by factors such as osteoporosis, vertebral fractures, or degenerative changes. It leads to a noticeable forward bend of the upper back.

Choice A rationale

The Whisper test evaluates hearing acuity, while the Romberg test assesses balance and proprioception by having the client stand with feet together and eyes closed. Both tests involve sensory assessments but do not directly assess cranial nerve VIII, which is the vestibulocochlear nerve responsible for hearing and balance.

Choice B rationale

PERRLA (pupils equal, round, reactive to light and accommodation) assesses cranial nerves II and III, while EOMs (extraocular movements) assess cranial nerves III, IV, and VI. These tests do not evaluate cranial nerve VIII.

Choice C rationale

Snellen and Rosenbaum tests measure visual acuity for distance and near vision, respectively. These tests assess cranial nerves II and III but do not evaluate cranial nerve VIII.

Choice D rationale

The Rinne and Weber tests are audiometric assessments that specifically evaluate cranial nerve VIII, which controls hearing and balance. The Rinne test compares air and bone conduction of sound, while the Weber test assesses sound lateralization, making them appropriate tests for assessing cranial nerve VIII.