What is a common indication of a positive Ortolani test?

The Ortolani test is specifically designed to assess the stability of an infant's hip joint and is used to identify congenital hip dislocation or dysplasia. A positive Ortolani test is indicated by the reduction of a previously dislocated femoral head back into the acetabulum. This occurs when the examiner gently abducts the hips while applying an upward force on the thigh, and a palpable "clunk" or feeling of the femoral head returning to its correct position may be felt.

Recognizing the importance of this test highlights why the reduction of a dislocated femoral head is a key diagnostic indicator in assessing hip joint stability in infants. Detecting this condition early is crucial for preventing potential long-term complications associated with hip dysplasia. The other options presented do not directly indicate the results of the Ortolani test; they refer to different clinical findings or conditions not specifically associated with the mechanism or interpretation of this test.