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

Choice A rationale

Ankylosis refers to the stiffening and immobility of a joint due to fusion of the bones. This condition is typically caused by chronic inflammation or injury, leading to bone remodeling and eventual bridging of the joint space. It is a pathological process that restricts movement and is not a normal physiological adaptation during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by rotation of the vertebrae. It can be congenital, neuromuscular, or idiopathic. This spinal deformity deviates from the normal sagittal plane alignment and is not a typical physiological compensatory mechanism for the gravid uterus.

Choice C rationale

Kyphosis is an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a hunched back appearance. While some degree of thoracic kyphosis is normal, an exaggerated curve can be pathological. It does not represent the compensatory postural change seen in pregnant women, which primarily involves the lumbar region.

Choice D rationale

Lordosis is an increased inward curvature of the lumbar spine. During pregnancy, as the uterus enlarges anteriorly, the woman's center of gravity shifts forward. To maintain balance and prevent falling, the abdominal muscles stretch and the lumbar spine accentuates its inward curve, which is known as lordosis, a physiological adaptation.

Choice A rationale

Surgical history provides context regarding past medical interventions and potential anatomical alterations. While relevant for comprehensive patient assessment, it does not directly impact the immediate safety of medication administration in the same critical manner as identifying drug hypersensitivities, which can precipitate life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.

Choice B rationale

Drug tolerance refers to a diminished physiological response to a medication over time, requiring increased doses to achieve the same effect. While important for therapeutic efficacy and dose adjustment, it is secondary to the immediate danger posed by an allergic reaction, which can be acute and severe.

Choice C rationale

Diet history is crucial for identifying potential drug-food interactions or nutritional deficiencies that might influence medication absorption or metabolism. However, an adverse food interaction, while potentially problematic, typically poses less immediate and severe risk than an unknown drug allergy, which can be fatal.

Choice D rationale

Allergy history is paramount because exposure to an allergen can trigger a severe, potentially life-threatening immunological response, such as anaphylaxis. Identifying known allergies prevents direct exposure to the offending agent, thereby safeguarding the patient from acute hypersensitivity reactions and ensuring immediate patient safety.