You are the nurse performing a nose and mouth assessment.
Which of the following assessment techniques stimulates cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal)?

Choice A rationale

Pain sensation behind the eyes, particularly during palpation of the frontal or ethmoid sinuses, suggests inflammation or infection within these sinuses. Under normal conditions, healthy paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities and should not elicit pain upon palpation.

Choice B rationale

Pain during palpation of any sinus area is indicative of sinusitis or inflammation. The presence of pain signifies pressure buildup, mucosal edema, or infection within the sinus cavities. Normal findings would not involve pain, but rather a sensation of mild pressure.

Choice C rationale

Normal findings during sinus palpation should elicit a sensation of pressure but no pain or tenderness. This indicates that the sinuses are air-filled, patent, and free from inflammation or congestion. The pressure is a result of the gentle digital compression over the bony structures.

Choice D rationale

Tingling along the nose and eyes is not a typical sensation associated with normal sinus palpation. This sensation might suggest neurological irritation, such as nerve compression or neuropathy, rather than a direct physiological response from the paranasal sinuses themselves.

Choice A rationale

Documenting the error and notifying the supervisor are necessary steps, but they are not the most immediate or comprehensive actions. The priority in a medication error is patient safety, which requires immediate medical assessment and intervention. This step follows after direct patient care and notification of the physician.

Choice B rationale

Administering the original drug and observing for adverse reactions addresses part of the problem, but it does not prioritize immediate medical consultation regarding the mistakenly administered drug. The focus should be on the potential effects of the incorrect medication and timely intervention to mitigate harm.

Choice C rationale

The most appropriate and immediate action is to call the physician to inform them of the medication error. This allows the physician to assess the potential harm to the patient based on the specific drug, dosage, and patient's condition, and to order appropriate interventions. An incident report is crucial for organizational learning and quality improvement.

Choice D rationale

Deciding not to act based on a quick check of allergies or contraindications is highly negligent and unsafe. Even if there are no apparent immediate contraindications, any medication error carries inherent risks and requires a thorough medical evaluation by the physician. This approach prioritizes patient safety over documentation and investigation.