A nurse prepares to use a penlight during a physical assessment. Which assessment is the nurse performing?

Choice A reason: A penlight is a standard tool used to assess the pupils for size, symmetry, and reaction to light (PERRLA). By shining the light into the eye, the nurse observes the constrictive response of the pupil, which provides critical information about the integrity of cranial nerves II and III. Choice B reason: Tactile fremitus is assessed using the palmar surfaces or ulnar edges of the hands to feel for vibrations transmitted through the chest wall while the patient speaks. This is a purely tactile assessment technique and does not involve the use of any light source or visual magnification tools. Choice C reason: Percussion is a technique involving the striking of one finger against another placed on the body surface to produce sound. It is used to evaluate the density of underlying organs and tissues. It is an auditory and tactile procedure that does not require the use of a penlight. Choice D reason: Range of motion (ROM) assessment involves observing the client move their joints through various planes or the nurse moving the joints for them. This assessment evaluates musculoskeletal flexibility and joint integrity. It is performed through visual inspection and physical manipulation, making a penlight unnecessary for the procedure.