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

What term refers to the bones located in the foot?

1. Malleolus

2. Metatarsals

3. Nail matrix

4. Paronychium

The correct answer is: Metatarsals

The metatarsals refer specifically to the long bones in the foot that connect the ankle to the toes. There are five metatarsals, one for each toe, and they play a crucial role in the foot's structure and function, providing support and aiding in movement. Each metatarsal is numbered from one to five, starting with the big toe. In contrast, malleolus refers to the bony prominence on either side of the ankle, rather than bones in the foot. The nail matrix is the tissue under the base of the nail responsible for nail growth, which is unrelated to bone structure. Additionally, paronychium is the tissue that surrounds the nails, primarily on the sides, and does not pertain to the bones of the foot. Understanding these definitions helps clarify why metatarsals is the correct term associated with the bones located in the foot.