The client presents to the nurse stating that his jaws feel "stuck". What joint should the nurse assess?
Sternoclavicular
Temporomandibular
Subtalar
Radioulnar
The Correct Answer is B
A. The sternoclavicular joint is where the sternum (breastbone) meets the clavicle (collarbone). It plays a role in the movement of the shoulder girdle but does not involve the jaw. Issues with this joint would typically present as shoulder or chest discomfort rather than problems with the jaw.
B. The temporomandibular joint is the joint where the mandible (lower jaw) meets the temporal bone of the skull, just in front of the ear. It is crucial for jaw movement, including opening, closing, and chewing. If a client feels that their jaws are "stuck," it is likely related to a problem with the TMJ. Common issues include TMJ disorders, which can cause pain, limited movement, or a sensation of the jaw being stuck.
C. The subtalar joint is located in the ankle, between the talus and calcaneus bones. It is involved in the movement of the foot, particularly in inversion and eversion. This joint is unrelated to jaw function, so problems here would affect the foot rather than the jaw.
D. The radioulnar joints are located in the forearm and involve the radius and ulna bones. These joints are responsible for the rotation of the forearm, such as turning the palm up or down. They do not relate to jaw movement or problems, so issues with these joints would affect the forearm or wrist rather than the jaw.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The glossopharyngeal nerve is involved in several functions, including taste sensation on the posterior third of the tongue, salivation, and the sensation of the pharynx. It also plays a role in swallowing and gag reflex. However, it is not responsible for the movement of the jaw or clenching of the jaw.
B. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in the face and also controls the muscles of mastication (chewing). It has both sensory and motor functions. The motor branches of the trigeminal nerve, specifically the mandibular division, innervate the muscles that allow for jaw movement, including clenching.
C. The vagus nerve has a broad range of functions, including regulating heart rate, digestive tract motility, and some aspects of speech and swallowing. It does not control jaw movement or clenching, so it is not relevant to this observation.
D. The facial nerve controls the muscles of facial expression, including movements like smiling, frowning, and closing the eyes. It is not involved in the motor control of the jaw or clenching actions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The trigeminal nerve (CN V) is primarily responsible for sensation in the face and the motor control of the muscles used for chewing. It does not have a role in balance or equilibrium, so it would not be the focus when assessing balance issues.
B. The facial nerve (CN VII) controls the muscles of facial expression and provides taste sensation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. While it plays a significant role in facial movement and taste, it is not involved in balance or equilibrium.
C. The olfactory nerve (CN I) is responsible for the sense of smell. It does not have any role in balance or equilibrium. Balance issues are not related to the olfactory nerve, so this is not the appropriate focus for balance assessment.
D. The vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) has two major components: the cochlear nerve, which is responsible for hearing, and the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance and equilibrium. The vestibular component of CN VIII is crucial for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When a client reports spontaneous loss of balance, this nerve should be the focus of additional assessment.
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