Physiological AdaptationQuestion 1681 of 2368

An older client has fallen and reports severe hip pain. Which finding is most consistent with a hip fracture?

  1. The injured leg looks shorter than the other leg
  2. The injured leg looks longer than the other leg
  3. The client can stand and bear full weight on the leg
  4. The injured leg moves freely without pain
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Correct answer: The injured leg looks shorter than the other leg

After a fall, a fractured hip causes pain, inability to bear weight, and a shortened leg.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Musculoskeletal Assessment: Hip Fracture. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Physiological Adaptation"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026