ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 1 related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client who has meningitis. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as a positive Kernig's sign?

  • A. After stroking the lateral area of the foot, the client's toes contract and draw together
  • B. After hip flexion, the client is unable to extend their leg completely without pain
  • C. The client's voluntary movement is not coordinated
  • D. The client reports pain and stiffness when flexing their neck
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A positive Kernig's sign is identified when a client is unable to extend their leg completely without pain after hip flexion. This finding suggests meningeal irritation. Choices A, C, and D do not describe Kernig's sign. Choice A describes a normal plantar reflex, Choice C refers to coordination deficits, and Choice D indicates neck pain and stiffness, which are not related to Kernig's sign.