neurology - nerves Flashcards
what sections of the trigeminal nerve can be tested?
corneal reflex
facial sensation
motor
jaw jerk
how is the cornea reflex tested?
patient look up and away
cotton wool on each side of the cornea
blink in both eyes - is patient aware
repeat on both sides
how is facial sensation tested?
sterile sharp object on forehead/cheek/jaw
repeat with a dull object - can patient feel difference?
if abnormal, try temperature and light touch
how is the motor section tested?
patient open mouth/clench teeth
palpate temporal and masseter muscles when clenching
how is the facial nerve tested?
inspect for facial droop or any asymmetry
check facial expression muscles - pt look up and wrinkle forehead - examine wrinkling loss, push down on each side to see strength
shut eyes tight and compare
grin - check nasolabial grooves
frown/show teeth/puff out cheeks
how is the glossopharyngeal nerve tested?
voice hoarse/nasal
pt swallows and coughs
examine palate for uvular displacement
ah - check symmetrical soft palate movement
gag reflex - stimulate each site of back of throat, normal gag each time
how is the hypoglossal nerve tested?
listen to articulation
inspect tongue in mouth for wasting
protrude tongue - unilateral deviates to one side
