A nurse expects to hear which percussion sounds over muscles and tissues?

Choice A rationale

The abducens cranial nerve (CN VI) controls the lateral rectus muscle of the eye, which is responsible for outward movement. It is not assessed using the Snellen visual acuity chart. The function of this nerve is tested through the evaluation of lateral eye movements.

Choice B rationale

The optic cranial nerve (CN II) is responsible for vision, including visual acuity and visual fields. It is assessed using the Snellen visual acuity chart to determine how well a person can see at various distances. This test evaluates the clarity and sharpness of vision, making CN II the correct answer.

Choice C rationale

The trochlear cranial nerve (CN IV) controls the superior oblique muscle, which helps with downward and inward eye movements. It is not assessed using the Snellen visual acuity chart but rather through the evaluation of eye movements and alignment.

Choice D rationale

The oculomotor cranial nerve (CN III) controls most of the eye's movements, including those of the superior, inferior, and medial rectus muscles, as well as the inferior oblique muscle. It is also responsible for controlling the pupil's response to light. The Snellen visual acuity chart does not assess the function of CN III, as it focuses on visual clarity and acuity.

Choice A rationale

The Cover/Uncover test is used to assess the presence of strabismus or eye muscle weakness. During this test, one eye is covered while the other eye is observed for movement. The uncovered eye is then observed when the cover is removed. If there is a misalignment or weakness, the uncovered eye will move to re-establish focus, indicating a problem with eye muscle control.

Choice B rationale

Testing peripheral vision involves assessing the range of vision around the central focus point and is not specifically used to detect eye muscle weakness. It evaluates the function of the retina and optic nerve rather than the eye muscles. This test helps identify issues such as glaucoma or retinal detachment.

Choice C rationale

The Snellen chart test measures visual acuity, specifically how well a person can see at various distances. It is not designed to assess eye muscle strength or alignment. The test involves reading letters of different sizes from a chart placed at a standard distance.

Choice D rationale

The Weber test is an auditory test used to assess hearing loss by placing a vibrating tuning fork on the forehead or middle of the head. It helps determine whether hearing loss is conductive or sensorineural in nature. This test does not provide information about eye muscle function or alignment.