Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions is indicated when monitoring cranial nerve function?

1. Protruded tongue movement

2. Fluctuating heart rate

3. Eye movement coordination

4. Facial muscle symmetry

The correct answer is: Facial muscle symmetry

Monitoring cranial nerve function involves assessing various physical responses that indicate the integrity and performance of the cranial nerves. Cranial nerve function is crucial as it governs multiple sensory and motor functions, particularly those involving facial movements, vision, and sensory perception. Facial muscle symmetry is a direct assessment of cranial nerve function, specifically the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve controls the muscles of facial expression, and any asymmetry in muscle movement can indicate dysfunction. For instance, conditions such as Bell's palsy or stroke may cause unilateral facial weakness, which would be evident during surgery or rehabilitation assessments. In the context of the other options, while protruded tongue movement reflects the function of cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal nerve) and eye movement coordination is linked to cranial nerves III, IV, and VI (oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens, respectively), these are not as comprehensive in assessing the cranial nerves' overall condition when compared to evaluating facial muscle symmetry. Fluctuating heart rate is associated with autonomic nervous system regulation and does not pertain to cranial nerve assessment. Thus, the focus on facial muscle symmetry provides a more relevant and direct indicator of cranial nerve function.