HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

Which statement is true regarding intention tremors in elderly patients?

1. They always indicate a pathological condition

2. They can be relieved by alcohol consumption

3. They are classified under Parkinson’s Disease symptoms

4. They indicate a deficit in proprioception

The correct answer is: They can be relieved by alcohol consumption

Intention tremors are a specific type of tremor that occur during purposeful movement, typically becoming more pronounced as the individual approaches a target. This phenomenon is often associated with conditions affecting the cerebellum and is not strictly confined to pathological conditions. While the relationship between intention tremors and alcohol consumption isn't straightforward, there is evidence to suggest that alcohol can temporarily reduce or alleviate tremors in some cases. This is because alcohol has a depressant effect on the central nervous system, which may result in a diminished tremor, though this is not a recommended or sustainable treatment. The other statements do not accurately reflect the characteristics of intention tremors. They do not always indicate a pathological condition, as they can occur in various contexts and not exclusively in disease. While intention tremors can sometimes be observed in individuals with Parkinson's disease, they are not classified under its primary symptoms, which often include resting tremors instead. Lastly, intention tremors may arise from various issues, including but not limited to cerebellar dysfunction, and while proprioceptive deficits can contribute to movement challenges, they do not directly cause intention tremors. Understanding these nuances helps clarify the nature of intention tremors and their implications for elderly patients.