When assessing muscle strength, the nurse observes that a patient has complete range of motion against gravity with full resistance. What grade of muscle strength should the nurse record using a 0- to 5-point scale?

A. This grade indicates trace contraction but no movement. It is not appropriate in this case, as the patient has full range of motion. B. Grade 2. This grade reflects full range of motion with gravity eliminated. The patient’s range of motion is against gravity, so this is not the correct grade. C. Grade 3. This grade indicates full range of motion against gravity but without resistance. The patient is able to resist full force, so this is not the correct grade either. D. Grade 5. This grade indicates normal strength with full range of motion against gravity and full resistance. This best describes the patient's strength, which is normal.