Nursing Process Test Bank Related

Review Nursing Process Test Bank related questions and content

When assessing the external ear, the nurse palpates a small protrusion of the helix called a Darwin tubercle. The nurse would document this finding as which of the following?

  • A. A normal finding
  • B. An abnormal finding
  • C. A normal finding only in the older adult
  • D. An abnormal finding only in the older adult
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A normal finding. The Darwin tubercle is a small, painless, bony nodule at the helix of the ear and is considered a normal anatomical variation. It is present in a significant portion of the population, regardless of age. It does not indicate any pathology or abnormality. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the presence of a Darwin tubercle is not indicative of any abnormality, and it is not limited to older adults.