How many metatarsal bones are present in the human body?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

Explanation

The human body has a total of 10 metatarsal bones, with 5 located in each foot.
Since 10 is not an option, the question implicitly asks for the number of metatarsals in a single foot.
The metatarsals are the five long bones of the midfoot, numbered from the medial side (big toe) to the lateral side.
They connect the tarsal bones of the ankle to the phalanges of the toes.

Option A: This is the number of phalanges (toe bones) in a single foot, not the metatarsals.
Option B: This number does not correspond to any group of bones in the foot.
Option D: This is the number of tarsal bones (ankle bones) in a single foot, not the metatarsals.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the Skeletal System: Bones of the Foot as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the anatomy of the foot is crucial for assessing and managing foot injuries, such as fractures, sprains, and deformities.
Metatarsal fractures are common injuries, especially in sports. A fracture of the fifth metatarsal, known as a Jones fracture, requires specific management due to its location and blood supply.
Nurses must be able to identify signs of foot fractures, such as pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to bear weight, and provide appropriate care, including immobilization and pain management.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the number of a specific type of bone (metatarsals).
Recall the basic anatomy of the human skeleton, specifically the bones of the foot.
Analyze the options provided. Notice that the total number of metatarsals in the body (10) is not an option.
Deduce that the question is likely asking for the number of bones in a single anatomical unit (one foot), which is a common convention in anatomy questions when the total body count isn't an option.
Select the option that correctly identifies the number of metatarsals in one foot (5).
Mentally cross-check the other options to confirm they represent other bone counts in the foot (14 phalanges, 7 tarsals), reinforcing your choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q04ncZCHjSoTRLLmty4iuM

E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e p. 163-165

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 270-272

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

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