Management of CareQuestion 1684 of 2368
During a musculoskeletal assessment, which finding should the nurse report immediately?
- Painless popping of a joint during activity
- Equal muscle strength of 5/5 on both sides
- Symmetrical joints with no swelling
- A hot, swollen, painful joint
Show answer
Correct answer: A hot, swollen, painful joint
A hot, swollen, painful joint is a critical condition. The other findings are expected.
Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Musculoskeletal Assessment: Palpation. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Management of Care"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026