FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

In a physical assessment, if a patient exhibits a poor balance and frequent falls, what should be prioritized?

1. Vision test

2. Gait assessment

3. Cognitive evaluation

4. Medication review

The correct answer is: Gait assessment

Prioritizing a gait assessment is crucial when a patient exhibits poor balance and frequent falls. Gait analysis helps to evaluate the pattern and ability of a patient to walk, which is a fundamental aspect of mobility. Understanding the characteristics of a patient's gait can reveal underlying issues such as muscle weakness, joint problems, neurological conditions, or sensory deficits that could contribute to balance issues and falls. A comprehensive gait assessment assesses not just the speed and rhythm of walking, but also the stability and coordination, all of which are important in identifying the risk factors for falls. Identifying specific gait abnormalities can guide further investigation and management, potentially leading to interventions that improve the patient's stability and reduce the risk of falls. While vision tests, cognitive evaluations, and medication reviews are certainly relevant considerations in a comprehensive assessment of a patient with balance problems, they are not as immediately pertinent as evaluating gait in the context of the specific issue of falls and balance. Addressing the gait first lays the groundwork for targeted interventions that can be critical in preventing further injuries.