Question

A nurse is assisting in developing a plan of care for a client following the surgical removal of an acoustic neuroma. Which assessment will be included in the plan of care for this specific intervention?

a. Assessment of cranial nerve VII (facial)
b. Assessment of cranial nerve V (trigeminal)
c. Assessment of cranial nerve IX (glossopharyngeal)
d. Assessment of cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal)

Answer 1

The inclusion of cranial nerve VII (facial) assessment in a plan of care is essential after the surgical removal of an acoustic neuroma due to the nerve's proximity to the surgical site.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assisting in the development of a plan of care for a client who has undergone the surgical removal of an acoustic neuroma would include an assessment of cranial nerve VII (facial). Acoustic neuroma surgery often impacts the facial nerve due to its proximity to the surgical site. Cranial nerve VII is responsible for facial expressions, taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, and some aspects of salivary and tear secretion, which could all be affected by the removal of an acoustic neuroma. The neurological exam, specifically the cranial nerve exam, would be crucial in assessing the impact of the surgery on these functions.