The nurse is assessing the chest shape of a patient.
Which chest configuration describes a sunken in sternum and costal cartilage?

Choice A rationale

The optic nerve (CN II) is responsible for vision, transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. Dysfunction of the optic nerve would result in visual disturbances, such as loss of vision or changes in visual acuity, rather than difficulty with tongue movement. This nerve does not control motor functions of the tongue.

Choice B rationale

The abducens nerve (CN VI) controls the lateral rectus muscle of the eye, which is responsible for moving the eye outward, away from the nose. Dysfunction of the abducens nerve would result in issues with eye movement, such as double vision or inability to move the eye laterally, not tongue movement. It does not play a role in tongue motor control.

Choice C rationale

The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) controls the muscles of the tongue, enabling movements necessary for speech, swallowing, and mastication. Dysfunction of this nerve would result in difficulty protruding the tongue and reduced strength during resistance testing. Symptoms can include atrophy of the tongue muscles, fasciculations, and deviation of the tongue to one side when extended.

Choice D rationale

The vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) is responsible for hearing and balance, transmitting sound and equilibrium information from the inner ear to the brain. Dysfunction of the vestibulocochlear nerve would lead to symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance disorders like vertigo. It does not affect the motor control of the tongue.

Choice A rationale

The Romberg test evaluates equilibrium by having the client stand with feet together and eyes closed, observing for swaying or imbalance. It assesses the function of the vestibular system, proprioception, and cerebellar function, making it the most appropriate test for assessing dizziness and equilibrium.

Choice B rationale

The Weber test involves placing a tuning fork on the forehead to evaluate sound lateralization. It assesses hearing loss but not equilibrium, making it less suitable for dizziness assessment.

Choice C rationale

The Rinne test compares air and bone conduction of sound using a tuning fork. While useful for diagnosing conductive hearing loss, it does not assess equilibrium, making it inappropriate for evaluating dizziness.

Choice D rationale

The cover test evaluates eye alignment and muscle function by having the client cover one eye and observe the uncovered eye for movement. It assesses ocular motility but not equilibrium, making it unsuitable for dizziness assessment.