Which of the following statement is true?

Appeared in: UPPSC 2017

Explanation

The ulna is the medial bone of the forearm, positioned on the side of the little finger.
It is longer and thinner than the radius.
The ulna's proximal end, the olecranon, forms the pointed part of the elbow, contributing to its greater length compared to the radius.
The radius is the lateral bone of the forearm, on the thumb side, and is shorter and thicker than the ulna.

Option B: This statement is anatomically false. The radius is shorter and thicker than the ulna.
Option C: The radius and ulna are two distinct bones of different lengths that work together.
Option D: The radius is one of the two bones of the forearm (lower arm). The bone of the upper arm is the humerus.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the forearm bones (Radius and Ulna) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the relationship between the radius and ulna is crucial for assessing and managing forearm fractures. A common injury is a Colles' fracture, a break in the distal radius.
The articulation between the radius and ulna allows for pronation (turning the palm down) and supination (turning the palm up) of the forearm.
What if? If a patient has a fracture of the olecranon process, the nurse should anticipate severe pain and swelling at the elbow and an inability to straighten the arm, as this process is critical for the extension mechanism.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key anatomical terms in the question: 'ulna' and 'radius'.
Recall the basic anatomy of the upper limb, specifically the forearm.
Visualize or remember the relative positions and sizes of the two forearm bones. The ulna is on the pinky side, and the radius is on the thumb side.
Evaluate each statement based on this anatomical knowledge.
Statement 1: 'Ulna is longer than radius.' - Recall that the ulna forms the point of the elbow (olecranon), making it longer. This is likely correct.
Statement 2 & 3: These contradict the fact that the ulna is longer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QiyxTuzx9oMKN_H4kq10b1

E6 Anatomy Grays 43e Vol 2 Part 2 p. 123-125

E6 Anatomy BDChaurasia V1 10e p. 30-32

Practise the full UPPSC 2017

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