Question

the nurse moves a clients arm from an outstretched position to a position at the side of their body. what is the term used to describe this type of body movement?

extension
circumduction
abduction
adduction

Explanation:

Analyze the starting and ending positions

The client's arm begins in an "outstretched position" (extended out to the side, away from the midline of the body) and is moved to a "position at the side of their body" (closer to the midline).

Define the anatomical movement terms

• Extension: Increases the angle between two bones or body parts (e.g., straightening the elbow).
• Circumduction: A circular movement combining flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.
• Abduction: Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body.
• Adduction: Movement of a limb toward the midline of the body ("adding" the limb back to the torso).

Match the scenario to the correct term

Moving the arm from an outstretched position back to the side of the body brings the limb closer to the midline. This is the definition of adduction.

Answer:

• Extension
• Circumduction
• Abduction
• Adduction (Correct answer)