Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

What condition can be assessed through vibratory sensation testing?

1. Neuropathy.

2. Inflammation.

3. Dermatitis.

4. Peripheral neuropathy.

The correct answer is: Peripheral neuropathy.

Vibratory sensation testing is primarily used to assess the integrity of sensory pathways, particularly involving the dorsal columns of the spinal cord. This testing helps identify issues related to the nerve function and sensitivity in the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy refers specifically to damage or dysfunction in the peripheral nerves, often resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and a loss of vibratory sensation. This condition can arise from various factors, including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and alcohol use, among others. By utilizing vibratory sensation testing, clinicians can detect the reduced ability to perceive vibrations, which is a hallmark feature of peripheral neuropathy. In contrast, conditions like inflammation or dermatitis are not primarily assessed through vibratory sensation and would generally involve other clinical evaluations, such as examination of physical signs or symptoms, rather than neurological function. Therefore, the association of vibratory sensation testing with peripheral neuropathy underscores its relevance in confirming and assessing this condition effectively.