While taking a history, the nurse observes that the patient's facial cranial nerves (CN VII) are intact based on which behaviors of the patient?
The sides of the mouth are symmetric when the patient smiles.
The patient's eyes move to the left, right, up, down, and obliquely during conversation.
The patient's eyelids blink periodically.
The patient moistens the lips with the tongue.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The sides of the mouth being symmetric when the patient smiles indicate intact function of the facial cranial nerve (CN VII). This nerve controls the muscles responsible for facial expressions, including smiling, frowning, and closing the eyes. Symmetry in these actions suggests that the facial nerve is functioning properly and that there is no nerve damage or weakness.
Choice B rationale
The patient's eyes moving to the left, right, up, down, and obliquely during conversation are functions of the oculomotor nerve (CN III), trochlear nerve (CN IV), and abducens nerve (CN VI), not the facial cranial nerve (CN VII). These nerves work together to control the movements of the eye muscles, enabling the eyes to move in different directions and maintain proper alignment.
Choice C rationale
Periodic blinking of the eyelids involves the oculomotor nerve (CN III) and the facial nerve (CN VII). The oculomotor nerve controls the muscles that lift the eyelid, while the facial nerve controls the muscles that close the eyelid. Blinking is a coordinated action involving both nerves, but the observation alone is not sufficient to determine the integrity of CN VII.
Choice D rationale
The patient moistening the lips with the tongue involves the function of the hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), which controls the movements of the tongue. The hypoglossal nerve is responsible for the motor control of most of the tongue muscles, allowing for actions like licking the lips, speaking, and swallowing. It is not related to the facial cranial nerve (CN VII).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Leukoplakia refers to white patches or plaques that develop on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. It is usually seen as a precancerous condition and is associated with chronic irritation, smoking, or other risk factors. These white patches are not typically associated with redness and bleeding of the gums.
Choice B rationale
Gingival hyperplasia involves the overgrowth or enlargement of the gums. It can be due to various factors, including medications (such as anticonvulsants or calcium channel blockers), hormonal changes, or certain systemic conditions. While the gums may appear enlarged and possibly bleed, gingival hyperplasia is not characterized by redness and bleeding as primary symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) and is characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding. It is usually caused by plaque buildup along the gumline, leading to irritation and inflammation. Gingivitis is considered an early stage of gum disease and can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and dental care.
Choice D rationale
Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It involves the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the alveolar bone and periodontal ligaments. Symptoms of periodontitis include gum recession, pockets forming between the gums and teeth, and possible tooth loss. While periodontitis can lead to bleeding gums, it is more severe than the initial symptoms of redness and bleeding seen in gingivitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Rhonchi are low-pitched, coarse sounds typically heard during expiration, associated with secretions in large airways, not high-pitched continuous sounds.
Choice B rationale
Stridor is a high-pitched sound heard during inspiration, typically indicating upper airway obstruction.
Choice C rationale
Wheezes are continuous high-pitched whistling sounds heard during expiration, common in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where airway narrowing is present.
Choice D rationale
Crackles are discontinuous sounds heard during inspiration, usually associated with fluid in the lungs or alveolar opening, not continuous high-pitched sounds. .
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.