Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which assessment finding indicates severe kyphosis in an elderly patient?

1. Normal spinal alignment

2. Excessive curvature of the spine

3. Scapular winging

4. Pain with palpation

The correct answer is: Excessive curvature of the spine

Severe kyphosis is characterized by an abnormal increase in the curvature of the thoracic spine. In elderly patients, this condition can be particularly pronounced due to factors like osteoporosis or degenerative changes in the spine. The finding of excessive curvature of the spine clearly indicates that there is a significant structural deformity, distinguishing it from normal spinal alignment, which is representative of a healthy spine. While the other options may relate to spinal health, they do not specifically indicate severe kyphosis. Normal spinal alignment presents no abnormal curvature, scapular winging could suggest muscle weakness or nerve issues rather than a direct measure of kyphosis, and pain with palpation is a subjective finding that may not directly correlate with the extent of spinal curvature. Therefore, identifying excessive curvature is the key assessment finding that suggests severe kyphosis.