Which physical examination sign was negative?

Prepare for the Practicode Cases Part 2 Test. Review case scenarios and answer multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Enhance your proficiency and accuracy before your final assessment!

Multiple Choice

Which physical examination sign was negative?

Explanation:
A key idea here is how a provocative nerve test is read. The Tinel sign checks for irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow by tapping over the area; if that tapping does not trigger numbness or tingling in the ulnar nerve distribution, the result is negative. A negative Tinel sign means there’s no clear ulnar neuropathy at the elbow in this exam. In contrast, elbow tenderness and swelling are local joint findings that point to inflammation or injury in the elbow itself, and a full range of motion indicates the joint can move freely without mechanical restriction. Those signs describe local joint status rather than nerve irritation, so they’re not the negative result in this scenario. So the sign that was negative is the Tinel sign.

A key idea here is how a provocative nerve test is read. The Tinel sign checks for irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow by tapping over the area; if that tapping does not trigger numbness or tingling in the ulnar nerve distribution, the result is negative. A negative Tinel sign means there’s no clear ulnar neuropathy at the elbow in this exam.

In contrast, elbow tenderness and swelling are local joint findings that point to inflammation or injury in the elbow itself, and a full range of motion indicates the joint can move freely without mechanical restriction. Those signs describe local joint status rather than nerve irritation, so they’re not the negative result in this scenario.

So the sign that was negative is the Tinel sign.

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