Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What are the distal interphalangeal joints (DIP joints)?

1. Joints in the neck

2. Joints between the two most distal toe bones

3. Joints connecting the wrist and hand

4. Joints at the knee

The correct answer is: Joints between the two most distal toe bones

The correct choice identifies the distal interphalangeal joints (DIP joints) as joints specifically located between the two most distal toe bones. The DIP joints are found in both the fingers and the toes, serving as the hinge joints that allow for flexion and extension of the distal phalanges. In the toes, the DIP joints are crucial for functions such as walking and balance. The other options don't accurately represent the anatomical location or function of the DIP joints. The joints in the neck refer to cervical joints, while the wrist connects to the hand through the carpal bones and does not encompass the DIP joints. Joints at the knee refer to a completely different set of joints (the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints) that are unrelated to the interphalangeal joints of the fingers or toes. Thus, the choice correctly contextualizes the DIP joints within the skeletal structure of the toes.