Which of the following is a key difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes?

A. Ask the client to read a Snellen chart. Cranial nerve II (optic nerve) is responsible for vision, including visual acuity, peripheral vision, and light perception. A Snellen chart is used to assess distance vision by having the client read letters at a standardized distance. Additional tests for cranial nerve II include the confrontation test for peripheral vision and ophthalmoscopic examination to assess the optic disc and retina.
B. Ask the client to identify scented aromas. This test evaluates cranial nerve I (olfactory nerve), which controls the sense of smell. The nurse would test this nerve by having the client close one nostril at a time and identify familiar scents, such as coffee or vanilla. Impairment in olfactory function can be caused by sinus infections, head trauma, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s), or aging, but it is not related to cranial nerve II.
C. Ask the client to clench his teeth. This assessment evaluates cranial nerve V (trigeminal nerve), which controls facial sensation and the muscles of mastication (chewing). The nurse would assess motor function by asking the client to clench their teeth while palpating the masseter and temporalis muscles for strength. Sensory function is assessed by light touch or sharp/dull discrimination on the face. This nerve does not play a role in vision or visual acuity.
D. Listen to the client's speech. Speech evaluation involves cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal), X (vagus), and XII (hypoglossal), which coordinate swallowing, phonation (voice production), and tongue movement. Impairment of these nerves can result in dysphonia (hoarse voice), dysarthria (slurred speech), or difficulty swallowing. While speech issues may sometimes indicate neurological deficits, they do not assess the function of cranial nerve II, which is solely responsible for vision.

A. "The purpose of this device is to allow for neck movement during the healing process." The halo fixation device is designed to completely immobilize the cervical spine, preventing movement to allow for proper healing of spinal injuries. Neck movement is restricted, not encouraged, to avoid further spinal damage.
B. "The purpose of this device is to immobilize the cervical spine." The primary function of a halo fixation device is to stabilize the cervical spine following a spinal cord injury, vertebral fracture, or post-surgical procedure. It provides rigid external fixation to prevent movement that could worsen the injury. Clients must be educated about avoiding activities that may put stress on the device.
C. "Apply talcum powder under the vest to limit friction." Talcum powder should not be used because it can increase skin irritation and moisture buildup, leading to skin breakdown under the vest. Instead, clients should wear a cotton T-shirt under the vest and maintain proper skin hygiene to prevent pressure sores.
D. "Turn the screws on the device once each day." Family members or clients should never adjust the screws. The halo pins should only be adjusted by a healthcare provider, as improper handling can lead to misalignment, pressure injuries, or worsening spinal damage.