Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Parkinson's disease typically causes which of the following symptoms?

1. A shuffling gait

2. Extremely straight posture

3. Memory loss

4. Aggressive behavior

The correct answer is: A shuffling gait

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is a shuffling gait, which is characterized by short, shuffling steps and difficulty in initiating movement. This occurs as a result of the disease's impact on dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to stiffness and a reduction in the ability to control voluntary movements. Patients with Parkinson's often exhibit a gait that lacks the normal swing of the arms and may be accompanied by a stooped posture. The shuffling gait is an observable external manifestation of the motor dysfunction associated with the disease. Understanding this symptom is crucial for identifying and managing the condition in affected individuals. While memory loss and behavioral changes can be associated with Parkinson's disease as it progresses, they are not defining symptoms and are not present in the early stages of the disease. Similarly, maintaining a straight posture does not align with the typical presentation of Parkinson's, where postural changes are more common. Recognizing specific symptoms like a shuffling gait is important in providing appropriate care and support for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.