NREMT Paramedic Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A positive Kernig's sign is an important clinical finding that indicates potential neurological dysfunction, particularly relating to irritation of the meninges. This sign is elicited by the patient lying flat, and when the clinician raises one of the patient's legs while keeping the knee straight, a positive result is indicated by the patient experiencing pain or resistance in the thigh or lower back.

This sign is commonly associated with conditions such as meningitis or subarachnoid hemorrhage, where there is inflammation or irritation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. As these conditions affect the central nervous system, the presence of a positive Kernig's sign acts as a red flag for further assessment and intervention.

In contrast, increased respiratory rate relates more to respiratory or metabolic processes, knee joint damage refers to orthopedic issues, and abdominal pain is indicative of gastrointestinal or abdominal problems. As such, only a positive Kernig's sign is directly connected to neurological dysfunction, making it a valuable indicator in the assessment of a patient's neurological status.