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
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering an inhaled glucocorticoid is not the priority intervention for a child with status asthmaticus. Inhaled glucocorticoids are anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma attacks, but they do not provide immediate relief of bronchoconstriction.
Choice B reason: Administering a short acting beta agonist (SABA) is the priority intervention for a child with status asthmaticus. SABAs are bronchodilators that relax the smooth muscles of the airways and improve airflow within minutes. They are the first line treatment for acute asthma symptoms and exacerbations.
Choice C reason: Determining the cause of the acute exacerbation is not the priority intervention for a child with status asthmaticus. While it is important to identify and avoid potential triggers of asthma, such as allergens, infections, or stress, this is not an urgent action during a severe asthma attack.
Choice D reason: Obtaining a peak flow reading is not the priority intervention for a child with status asthmaticus. Peak flow is a measure of how quickly the child can blow air out of the lungs, and it can indicate the degree of airway obstruction. However, peak flow measurement is not reliable or feasible during a severe asthma attack, and it should not delay the administration of bronchodilators.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Cleansing the perineum from back to front can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can introduce bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. The nurse should instruct the client to cleanse the perineum from front to back, using a mild soap and water, and to change the pad or underwear frequently to prevent bacterial growth.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Obtaining a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can create a direct route for bacteria to enter the bladder. Indwelling catheters should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, and should be removed as soon as possible. The nurse should explore other bladder management options for the client, such as intermittent catheterization, condom catheter, or suprapubic catheter.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Offering the client the bedpan every 2 hours can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can cause urinary stasis and bladder distension. The nurse should assess the client's bladder function and determine the optimal frequency of bladder emptying, which may vary depending on the type and level of spinal cord injury. The nurse should also monitor the client's urine output, color, odor, and clarity, and report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or flank pain.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Encouraging fluid intake at and between meals can decrease the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and prevent urinary stasis and bladder distension. The nurse should advise the client to drink at least 2 liters of water per day, unless contraindicated by other medical conditions. The nurse should also educate the client about the benefits of cranberry juice, which can inhibit bacterial adhesion to the bladder wall and prevent infection.
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