After assessing a patient, the nurse will document "PERRLA" in the patient's medical record based upon which finding?
Explanation & Rationale
The PERRLA acronym is a standardized clinical finding used during the neurological examination of the cranial nerves II and III. It confirms that the constrictor pupillae muscles and the ciliary body are functioning correctly. Intact accommodation reflects the eye's convergence and pupillary constriction for near vision. A. Perforation of the tympanic membrane: This finding relates to the otoscopic examination of the middle ear and the integrity of the eardrum. It would be documented as a ruptured or perforated tympanic membrane. It has no correlation with the PERRLA neurological acronym. B. Pupils are equal, round, reactive to light, and accommodation: This phrase is the direct definition of the PERRLA mnemonic used in clinical documentation. It indicates that the pupils are symmetrical and respond appropriately to light and distance. This is the correct clinical interpretation. C. Breaths sounds are clear and equal bilaterally: This finding pertains to the auscultation of the respiratory system and the assessment of lung ventilation. It is typically documented as "clear to auscultation" or "CTA." It is unrelated to the visual or neurological systems. D. Compound nevus on the left inner elbow with lesions on the skin: This describes a dermatological finding of a pigmented mole and associated skin changes. Such findings are documented under the integumentary section of a physical exam. It does not involve pupillary assessment or the eyes.