Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What does a few beats of horizontal nystagmus during a physical examination indicate in a child?

1. It is caused by occult bleeding of the retinal artery

2. This is a normal finding

3. It is a sign of a possible brain mass

4. This is a borderline result and requires further evaluation

The correct answer is: This is a normal finding

The presence of a few beats of horizontal nystagmus during a physical examination in a child can indeed be considered a normal finding. Nystagmus, which is characterized by rapid, uncontrolled eye movements, can occur in various forms and is not necessarily indicative of a pathology, especially when it is minimal and transient. In children, some degree of nystagmus may occur due to normal physiological responses or variations in their neurological development. Transient nystagmus can occur, for instance, when the eyes are rapidly shifted from side to side or focused in different directions. In these cases, it does not usually warrant concern unless accompanied by other abnormal neurological signs or symptoms. Thus, recognizing that a few beats of horizontal nystagmus can be within normal limits is essential for proper interpretation of clinical findings. Conversely, the other options suggest conditions that relate to more significant medical issues, and therefore would not typically be associated with a benign, situational nystagmus that presents as a brief occurrence during an examination.