American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

Which symptom is commonly associated with a resting hand tremor in Parkinson's disease?

1. Pill rolling

2. Muffled speech

3. Hand weakness

4. Sudden drops in tone

The correct answer is: Pill rolling

A resting hand tremor in Parkinson's disease is often characterized by the "pill rolling" motion. This term refers to the way individuals with Parkinson's may appear to roll their fingers and thumb together as though rolling a small pill or object between them. This specific type of tremor typically occurs when the hand is at rest and is a classic symptom of the disease, often aiding in the clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's. The other symptoms listed do not specifically represent the tremor associated with Parkinson's. Muffled speech can occur as the disease progresses, but it is not a hallmark of the resting tremor itself. Hand weakness may arise from the disease, but it is not directly connected to the tremors characteristic of Parkinson's. Sudden drops in tone, which might refer to postural instability or a sudden loss of muscle tone typically associated with other conditions or later stages of Parkinson's, are also not directly related to the resting hand tremor. The "pill rolling" motion is distinctly recognizable in clinical assessment, making it the hallmark symptom associated with resting tremors in Parkinson's disease.