2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
A healthcare professional reviewing the health care record of a client notes documentation of grade 4 muscle strength. The healthcare professional understands that this indicates:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Grade 4 muscle strength indicates that a client can achieve full range of motion (ROM) against gravity but with some resistance. This means the muscle can perform effectively but is not able to withstand maximum resistance.
- **Option A (Full ROM with gravity)** describes movement without resistance, which does not reflect the strength level indicated by grade 4.
- **Option B (Full ROM against gravity with full resistance)** suggests the muscle can handle maximum resistance, which is characteristic of grade 5 strength, not grade 4.
- **Option C (Full ROM with gravity eliminated)** refers to passive motion and does not apply to muscle strength assessment, as it does not involve active muscle contraction.
Thus, option D accurately reflects the definition of grade 4 muscle strength.