FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

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What does the term 'graphesthesia' refer to in a neurological examination?

Recognizing objects by touch
Identifying shapes traced on the skin
Feeling vibrations during testing
Understanding written language

The correct answer is: Identifying shapes traced on the skin

Graphesthesia refers specifically to the ability to recognize and identify shapes, letters, or numbers that are traced on the skin, typically using a blunt instrument or fingertip. This neurological examination technique is designed to assess the sensory pathways and cortical function associated with the somatosensory system. This skill relies on intact sensory neurons transmitting signals to the brain, where processing occurs to determine what is being traced. It helps evaluate the functioning of the parietal lobe where sensory perception is processed and the integration of tactile information takes place. The other options describe different sensory abilities. For instance, recognizing objects by touch relates to stereognosis, feeling vibrations pertains to vibratory sensation testing, and understanding written language involves cognitive processing, not tactile recognition. Each of these is distinct from graphesthesia, which specifically focuses on the recognition of traced shapes on the skin.