Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

A tremor that is most prominent when the hands are in use is related to which condition?

1. Parkinson's disease

2. Benign essential tremor

3. Cerebellar dysfunction

4. Multiple sclerosis

The correct answer is: Benign essential tremor

The characteristic of a tremor that becomes more pronounced when the hands are in use is associated with benign essential tremor. This condition typically leads to an action tremor, meaning that the shaking is exacerbated during voluntary movements, such as writing or reaching for objects. In contrast to resting tremors seen in Parkinson's disease, action tremors in benign essential tremor are specifically linked to movement. Additionally, benign essential tremor can often be familial and is usually not associated with other neurological deficits, distinguishing it from conditions such as multiple sclerosis or cerebellar dysfunction, which involve a broader spectrum of symptoms and neurological signs. Understanding the context around the specific type of tremor helps clarify the diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of tremor characteristics in clinical assessment.