Final answer:
The facial nerve (CN VII) is responsible for facial paralysis in a patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cranial nerve responsible for facial paralysis in a patient is the facial nerve (CN VII).
The facial nerve controls the muscles of facial expression and also supplies taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Damage to the facial nerve can result in facial drooping and difficulty with facial movements, such as closing the eyes, smiling, or frowning.