The nurse performs a two-point discrimination test by applying two sterile needles lightly to the fingertips and moving the needle tips in ever-closing distances. A middle-aged adult client senses two points at a distance of 3 mm on the fingertips and 10 mm on the palms of the hands. Which interpretation of this finding is accurate?

Choice A rationale Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness, which is not indicated by the client’s ability to sense two points at specific distances. Choice B rationale A marginal decline in sensory function would be indicated by a significant increase in the distance required to sense two points, which is not the case here. Choice C rationale A rebound reaction to the needle points is not a recognized interpretation of the two-point discrimination test. Choice D rationale The client’s ability to sense two points at a distance of 3 mm on the fingertips and 10 mm on the palms is within the normal range for two-point discrimination.