A school nurse is performing scoliosis screenings. The nurse should recognize which of the following clinical manifestations as an indication of scoliosis?
Explanation & Rationale
A) Exaggerated curvature of the sacrum: This is not a specific indicator of scoliosis. Scoliosis primarily involves lateral curvature of the spine, not an exaggerated curvature of the sacrum. B) Uneven shoulder and pelvic heights: This is the correct answer. Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can lead to uneven shoulder and pelvic heights. This is a common clinical manifestation that nurses look for during screenings. C) Mild pain in the hip region: While pain can sometimes accompany scoliosis, it is not a definitive clinical manifestation of the condition itself and is not typically used as an indicator during screenings. D) Limited range-of-motion of the hips: Limited hip motion may occur due to other conditions but is not a primary sign of scoliosis. The assessment of scoliosis focuses more on spinal alignment and symmetry rather than hip mobility.