Nuchal rigidity is defined as which?

Prepare for the NREMT Advanced-EMT Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ready yourself for success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Nuchal rigidity is defined as which?

Explanation:
Nuchal rigidity refers to stiffness of the neck, usually due to irritation of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This stiffness makes neck flexion painful and limited and is a warning sign of possible meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or other CNS irritation, especially if paired with fever, headache, or altered mental status. The other descriptions—dizziness with neck stiffness, neck swelling with limited rotation, or an involuntary neck tremor—do not capture the meaning of nuchal rigidity, which is specifically about a stiff neck.

Nuchal rigidity refers to stiffness of the neck, usually due to irritation of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This stiffness makes neck flexion painful and limited and is a warning sign of possible meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or other CNS irritation, especially if paired with fever, headache, or altered mental status. The other descriptions—dizziness with neck stiffness, neck swelling with limited rotation, or an involuntary neck tremor—do not capture the meaning of nuchal rigidity, which is specifically about a stiff neck.

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