The nurse tests the function of the client’s cranial nerves during the

The nurse tests the function of the client’s cranial nerves during the neurological component of the physical examination. In testing cranial nerve III, the nurse verifies the client’s ability to:

1. Smile and frown
2. Read printed material
3. Identify sweet and sour tastes
4. React to light with changes in pupil size

ANSWER

ANS: 4
In testing cranial nerve III (oculomotor), the nurse determines the client’s ability to react to light with changes in pupil size. Testing accommodation will also assess cranial nerve III. In testing cranial nerve VII (facial), the nurse determines the client’s ability to smile and frown. In testing cranial nerve II (optic), the nurse determines the client’s ability to read printed material. In testing cranial nerve IX (glossopharyngeal), the nurse determines the client’s ability to identify sweet and sour tastes.