A nurse is assessing a client’s cranial nerves as part of a neurological examination. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to assess cranial nerve III?
Eliciting the gag reflex
Checking the pupillary response to light
Observing for facial symmetry
Testing visual acuity
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Eliciting the gag reflex is not a valid way to assess cranial nerve III. The gag reflex is a protective mechanism that prevents choking or aspiration by triggering a contraction of the pharyngeal muscles when the back of the throat is stimulated. The gag reflex is mediated by cranial nerves IX and X, not III.
Choice B reason: Checking the pupillary response to light is a reliable way to assess cranial nerve III. The pupillary response to light is a reflex that causes the pupil to constrict when exposed to bright light and dilate when exposed to dim light. This reflex helps to regulate the amount of light that enters the eye and protects the retina from damage. The pupillary response to light is controlled by cranial nerve III, which innervates the sphincter pupillae muscle that constricts the pupil.
Choice C reason: Observing for facial symmetry is not a relevant way to assess cranial nerve III. Facial symmetry is the degree of similarity between the two halves of the face. Facial symmetry can be affected by various factors, such as genetics, aging, or facial nerve palsy. Facial nerve palsy is a condition that causes weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control facial expression. Facial nerve palsy is caused by damage to cranial nerve VII, not III.
Choice D reason: Testing visual acuity is not a sufficient way to assess cranial nerve III. Visual acuity is the ability to see fine details and distinguish objects at a distance. Visual acuity depends on various factors, such as the clarity of the lens and cornea, the shape of the eyeball, and the function of the retina. Visual acuity is mainly affected by cranial nerve II, which carries visual information from the retina to the brain. Cranial nerve III does not directly influence visual acuity, but it does innervate some of the muscles that move the eye and enable binocular vision.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Weight gain is not a manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. In fact, weight loss is a common symptom of tuberculosis, as the infection causes the body to use more energy and reduce appetite. Weight loss can also be a result of malnutrition, dehydration, or other complications of tuberculosis.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Night sweats are a manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. They occur because the infection causes the body to produce more heat and sweat to fight off the bacteria. Night sweats can also be a sign of fever, which is another symptom of tuberculosis.
Choice C reason: This is correct. Low-grade fever is a manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. It occurs because the infection causes the body to raise its temperature to kill the bacteria. Fever can also be accompanied by chills, fatigue, or weakness.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Blood in the sputum is a manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. It occurs because the infection causes damage and inflammation to the lungs and the airways, which can bleed and mix with the mucus that is coughed up. Blood in the sputum can also be a sign of a serious complication, such as a ruptured blood vessel or a lung abscess.
Choice E reason: This is incorrect. Flushed cheeks are not a manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. They can be caused by various factors, such as embarrassment, exercise, alcohol, or hot weather. Flushed cheeks are not related to the infection or the inflammation of the lungs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The oral mucosa is the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis because it reflects the oxygen saturation of the arterial blood. Central cyanosis occurs when the arterial blood has a low oxygen saturation due to a cardiopulmonary problem. The oral mucosa is less affected by peripheral factors such as temperature, vasoconstriction, or skin pigmentation.
Choice B reason: The conjunctivae are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis because they can be affected by other conditions such as anemia, jaundice, or eye infections. The conjunctivae are the thin membranes that cover the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.
Choice C reason: The ear lobes are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis because they can be affected by peripheral factors such as temperature, vasoconstriction, or skin pigmentation. The ear lobes are the fleshy lower part of the external ear.
Choice D reason: The soles of the feet are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis because they can be affected by peripheral factors such as temperature, vasoconstriction, or skin pigmentation. The soles of the feet are the bottom part of the feet.
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