OSCE On-Ground Practice Test

Which statement correctly describes a normal palpation of the skull?

Tenderness and swelling are normal findings The skull is smooth and symmetrical Indentation or depressions are normal The skull is highly irregular

Correct Answer:

The skull is smooth and symmetrical

Explanation:

A normal skull palpation shows a smooth, symmetrical contour without tenderness or swelling. As you gently feel from the forehead back to the occipital region, the bone surface should be uniform and free of lumps, depressions, or irregularities. Tenderness would raise concern for inflammation, infection, or fracture, and swelling or noticeable irregularities suggest trauma or underlying pathology. In adults, indentations or noticeable asymmetry are not expected, so describing the skull as smooth and symmetrical captures the normal finding.

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