Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

Which cranial nerve assessment involves asking the patient to push their tongue against their cheek?

1. CN VI

2. CN IX

3. CN XII

4. CN VII

The correct answer is: CN XII

The assessment involving asking the patient to push their tongue against their cheek evaluates the function of the twelfth cranial nerve, known as the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve is primarily responsible for the motor control of the muscles of the tongue, which are crucial for speech and swallowing. By asking the patient to push their tongue against their cheek, the examiner can assess the strength and coordination of the tongue muscles. If the hypoglossal nerve is functioning properly, the patient should be able to exert equal pressure on both sides, demonstrating normal motor control and function. In contrast, the other options pertain to different functions and assessments focusing on various aspects of cranial nerve function. For example, the sixth cranial nerve primarily controls lateral eye movements, while the ninth cranial nerve is involved in the sensory and motor function of the oropharynx and assists with swallowing. The seventh cranial nerve is responsible for facial movement and sensation, as well as taste. Consequently, the specific task of pushing the tongue against the cheek directly assesses the motor function associated with the hypoglossal nerve, making it the correct choice.