Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

How can motor neuropathy be assessed?

1. By listening to patient complaints

2. Through an angiogram

3. Inspection for deformities and callus formation

4. Measuring blood sugar levels

The correct answer is: Inspection for deformities and callus formation

Motor neuropathy can be assessed primarily through the inspection for deformities and callus formation, as this observation provides key insights into motor function and potential nerve damage. When a patient has motor neuropathy, there can be changes in muscle strength or coordination, which may lead to deformities in the hands, feet, and other areas due to altered movements or muscle imbalances. Additionally, callus formation can occur in areas where pressure is consistently applied, often a result of abnormal gait or posture that may arise from muscle weakness or loss of sensation. Listening to patient complaints can provide valuable subjective information about symptoms, but it does not offer a direct assessment of motor function. An angiogram is not relevant to assessing motor neuropathy, as it examines blood vessels rather than nerve function. Measuring blood sugar levels may be important in the context of diabetes management, which is related to neuropathies, but it does not evaluate motor function directly. Thus, inspection for physical changes is a critical and practical approach to assess motor neuropathy effectively.