Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

A key sign of motor neuropathy is:

1. Severe pain in extremities

2. Altered weight bearing

3. Extreme sensitivity to touch

4. Increased sweating of feet

The correct answer is: Altered weight bearing

Motor neuropathy primarily affects the nerves that control muscle movements, and a key sign of this condition is altered weight bearing. This alteration occurs because the muscles may not be functioning properly due to nerve damage, leading to weakness or decreased coordination. Individuals with motor neuropathy may struggle to maintain balance or may have difficulty bearing weight on certain areas of their body, particularly the extremities. This can manifest as a noticeable change in gait or stance, as the person compensates for weakness or instability. The inability to bear weight effectively can result in an increased risk of falls and further complications. While other symptoms such as severe pain in extremities, extreme sensitivity to touch, and increased sweating of the feet can be associated with different types of neuropathies (e.g., sensory neuropathies), they do not specifically indicate motor neuropathy. The hallmark of motor dysfunction is clearly linked to the ability to bear weight and control movement, making altered weight bearing the most pertinent sign in this context.