Which of the following tests would be most appropriate for the nurse to use when assessing motor function of the trigeminal nerve?
Assess dilatation of pupils with direct light.
Ask the client to differentiate between sharp and dull sensations on the client's face.
Palpates temporal and masseter muscles while client clenches teeth.
Have the client smile, frown, and wrinkle the forehead.
The Correct Answer is C
A. This test assesses the function of the oculomotor nerve (CN III), not the trigeminal nerve. The oculomotor nerve controls the constriction and dilation of the pupils, as well as some eye movements. Therefore, this choice is not appropriate for assessing the trigeminal nerve.
B. This test assesses the sensory function of the trigeminal nerve (CN V). The trigeminal nerve provides sensation to the face, and testing the ability to differentiate between sharp and dull sensations evaluates
the sensory component of this nerve. However, this test does not assess the motor function of the trigeminal nerve.
C. This test evaluates the motor function of the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve controls the muscles involved in chewing, including the temporal and masseter muscles. By palpating these muscles while the client clenches their teeth, the nurse assesses the strength and function of these muscles, which are innervated by the trigeminal nerve. This is a direct test of motor function for CN V.
D. This test assesses the function of the facial nerve (CN VII), which controls the muscles of facial expression. It is not relevant for assessing the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in both sensory functions of the face and motor functions related to chewing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Kyphosis is a condition characterized by an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a hunchbacked appearance. It often results from degenerative diseases, osteoporosis, or other spinal conditions.
B. Lordosis refers to an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, often referred to as "swayback." This condition can be congenital or due to other factors like obesity or pregnancy.
C. Osteoporosis is a bone condition characterized by decreased bone density and strength, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It is particularly common in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen levels, which help maintain bone density.
D. Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can be congenital, idiopathic, or secondary to other conditions.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The trigeminal nerve (CN V) primarily controls sensation in the face and the muscles of mastication (chewing). While it is crucial for sensory input and motor control related to chewing, it does not directly control the movement of the tongue.
B. The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) is responsible for controlling the movements of the tongue. A lesion of CN XII can cause the tongue to deviate towards the side of the weakness or damage. This is because the hypoglossal nerve innervates the muscles of the tongue, and damage to it results in weakness of the muscles on the affected side, causing the tongue to deviate towards that side when protruded.
C. The facial nerve (CN VII) controls the muscles of facial expression. While it affects facial movements and expressions, it does not control the movements of the tongue. A lesion in CN VII would typically result in facial asymmetry or weakness rather than tongue deviation.
D. The olfactory nerve (CN I) is responsible for the sense of smell. It does not have any role in controlling tongue movement. Therefore, a lesion in CN I would not cause deviation of the tongue.
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