CAT Exam Practice Test Related

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In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, if a child has a Gower sign, what behavior should the nurse expect the child to exhibit?

  • A. Stands from sitting on the floor by using hands to walk up legs
  • B. Exhibits muscular atrophy of upper and lower extremities
  • C. Is unable to stand because of contractures of both hips
  • D. Walks with an unsteady gait and slaps feet on the floor
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The Gower sign is a characteristic finding in Duchenne muscular dystrophy where a child uses hands to walk up the legs when standing from a sitting position due to proximal muscle weakness. This behavior is indicative of the child trying to compensate for weak hip and thigh muscles. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not describe the specific behavior associated with the Gower sign. Muscular atrophy, contractures of both hips, and an unsteady gait with foot slapping are not directly related to the Gower sign.