A nurse is assessing a client’s cranial nerves. What cranial nerve would be assessed when checking a client’s gag reflex?
CN IX
CN V
CN X
CN XII
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) is primarily responsible for the gag reflex. It provides sensory input from the pharynx and posterior third of the tongue, which triggers the gag reflex when stimulated. This nerve plays a crucial role in swallowing and the reflexive action to prevent choking.
Choice B reason: The trigeminal nerve (CN V) is responsible for facial sensation and motor functions such as biting and chewing. It does not play a direct role in the gag reflex. While it is important for other sensory and motor functions, it is not involved in the reflex being assessed here.
Choice C reason: The vagus nerve (CN X) also contributes to the gag reflex by providing motor innervation to the muscles of the pharynx and larynx. However, the primary sensory input for the gag reflex comes from the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX). The vagus nerve works in conjunction with CN IX to complete the reflex action.
Choice D reason: The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) controls the movements of the tongue. It is essential for speech and swallowing but does not have a role in the gag reflex. The hypoglossal nerve’s primary function is motor control of the tongue muscles.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Prolonging the life of a client is not the primary focus of palliative care. While palliative care can sometimes extend life by improving overall well-being and reducing stress, its main goal is to enhance the quality of life by managing symptoms and providing comfort12. Palliative care is not primarily aimed at life extension but rather at ensuring that patients live as well as possible despite their illness.
Choice B Reason:
Controlling symptoms and providing comfort is the core focus of palliative care. This type of care aims to alleviate pain and other distressing symptoms, such as nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue12. Palliative care also addresses emotional, social, and spiritual needs, helping patients and their families cope with the challenges of serious illness. By focusing on comfort and quality of life, palliative care supports patients in living as fully as possible.
Choice C Reason:
Replacing other treatments for an illness is not the focus of palliative care. Palliative care is designed to complement, not replace, other medical treatments12. It can be provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments, offering additional support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The goal is to provide a holistic approach to care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s well-being.
Choice D Reason:
Curing a serious illness is not the aim of palliative care. Palliative care is appropriate for patients at any stage of a serious illness, whether or not a cure is possible12. Its primary focus is on symptom management, comfort, and quality of life, rather than on curing the illness. This approach helps patients and their families navigate the complexities of serious health conditions with greater ease and support.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“Do not take the medication before bedtime” is incorrect because the timing of medication administration depends on the specific medication and its intended effects. Some medications are specifically prescribed to be taken at bedtime to help with sleep or to reduce side effects that might occur during the day.
Choice B Reason:
“Take the medication with a full glass of water” is correct because many medications require adequate hydration to ensure proper absorption and to prevent irritation of the esophagus and stomach. Taking medication with a full glass of water helps to ensure that the medication reaches the stomach quickly and reduces the risk of esophageal irritation or damage.
Choice C Reason:
“This medication must be taken on an empty stomach” is incorrect unless the specific medication requires it. Some medications are better absorbed on an empty stomach, but this is not a universal rule and depends on the medication’s formulation and intended use.
Choice D Reason:
“Expect abdominal pain with this medication” is incorrect because not all medications cause abdominal pain. If a medication is known to cause abdominal pain, the nurse should provide additional instructions on how to manage this side effect or discuss alternative medications with the healthcare provider.
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