Question

The nurse is performing a detailed neurological assessment on a client with a suspected brain tumor. When performing the Romberg test, the client sways when the eyes are both open and closed. What does this indicate? A. The problem is probably in the cerebellum. B. It is a position sense abnormality. C. This is not an abnormal test result. D. The client has lost proprioception.

Short answer

Answer: A. The problem is probably in the cerebellum.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Romberg Test

The Romberg test is a neurological test performed by asking a client to stand with their feet close together and their arms at their sides. The test is conducted with the client's eyes both open and closed. It is primarily used to evaluate a person's sense of balance and proprioception. Swaying indicates a problem in the client's neurological system related to balance and proprioception.

Analyze each option

A. Cerebellum: The cerebellum is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement, balance, and proprioception. An issue with the cerebellum could cause swaying in the Romberg test. B. Position sense abnormality: This implies a dysfunction in the ability to perceive the position of one's body parts. It can affect balance and contribute to swaying in the Romberg test. C. Not an abnormal test result: This statement indicates that swaying in a Romberg test is normal and does not indicate a neurological issue. D. Loss of proprioception: Losing proprioception means the person is unable to sense the position of their body in space properly. This can contribute to swaying in the Romberg test.

Compare test results to the options

The client sways when the eyes are both open and closed during the Romberg test. This result indicates that there is an issue with the client's neurological system related to balance and proprioception.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each option and comparing the test results, the correct answer is: A. The problem is probably in the cerebellum. Swaying during the Romberg test, regardless of whether the eyes are open or closed, points towards a possible issue with the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordinating movement, balance, and proprioception.