The nurse is performing the diagnostic positions test (6 Cardinal Gazes). Which result is a normal finding?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Nystagmus in extreme superior gaze: A few beats of nystagmus in extreme lateral gaze may be normal, but sustained nystagmus, especially in superior gaze, suggests neurological impairment such as vestibular dysfunction or multiple sclerosis. B. Slight amount of lid lag when moving the eyes from a superior to an inferior position: Lid lag, where the upper eyelid lags behind the downward movement of the eye, is often associated with hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves' disease). It is not a normal finding in the diagnostic positions test. C. Convergence of the eyes: Convergence is assessed when a person focuses on a near object, such as during an accommodation test. The diagnostic positions test evaluates extraocular muscle function and cranial nerves III, IV, and VI, focusing on coordinated movement rather than convergence. D. Parallel/synchronized movement of both eyes: The normal finding in the diagnostic positions test is smooth, coordinated movement of both eyes in all six cardinal directions without lagging, misalignment, or significant nystagmus. This indicates intact extraocular muscles and proper cranial nerve function.