A band of flexible connective tissue that connects or holds two bones together at a joint is called?

Appeared in: MP CHO -2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

Ligaments are tough, fibrous bands of connective tissue that connect one bone to another bone.
Their primary function is to provide stability to the joint, holding the bones together and preventing excessive or abnormal movement.
An example is the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in the knee, which connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone).

Option A: A joint is the entire articulation structure where two or more bones meet; it is not the specific tissue that connects them.
Option B: Cartilage is a smooth, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones within a joint to provide cushioning and reduce friction.
Option C: Tendons are fibrous connective tissues that connect muscle to bone, facilitating movement when the muscle contracts.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of Musculoskeletal Connective Tissues as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between ligaments and tendons is crucial for assessing and managing musculoskeletal injuries. An injury to a ligament is a sprain, while an injury to a muscle or tendon is a strain.
Initial nursing management for a sprain often involves the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce swelling and pain.
What if? If a patient presents with pain and instability in the knee after a twisting injury but can still actively extend their leg (though painful), the injury is more likely a ligament sprain (e.g., ACL) rather than a complete tendon rupture (e.g., quadriceps tendon), which would prevent leg extension.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of anatomical definitions.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'connects or holds two bones together'.
Next, systematically review the definition of each option.
Define 'Joint': The location where bones meet.
Define 'Cartilage': The cushion on the ends of bones.
Define 'Tendon': Connects muscle to bone.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 306-308

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 p. 81-83

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 p. 103-105

Practise the full MP CHO -2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.