Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which description provided by a patient is most consistent with a diagnosis of vertigo?

1. A sensation of imbalance while walking

2. A sensation of spinning or rotating

3. A sensation of "passing out"

4. A sensation of lightheadedness when changing positions from reclining to standing

The correct answer is: A sensation of spinning or rotating

The description of a sensation of spinning or rotating is most consistent with a diagnosis of vertigo because vertigo specifically refers to a false sense of movement, often characterized by the feeling that either oneself or the environment is in motion. This sensation can be caused by issues in the inner ear, brain, or sensory pathways, leading to disorientation and balance problems. Other sensations mentioned, such as imbalance while walking, passing out, or lightheadedness, can manifest in various conditions, including dizziness or balance disorders, but they do not capture the distinctive experience of vertigo. The sensation of spinning or rotating is central to the definition and clinical identification of vertigo, making it the most accurate choice in this context.