Final answer:
The cranial nerve that is assessed to check if a patient can swallow and talk is the vagus nerve or cranial nerve X.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cranial nerve that is assessed to check if a patient can swallow and talk is the vagus nerve or cranial nerve X. The motor control of the gag reflex, which is involved in swallowing, is largely controlled by fibers in the vagus nerve. This nerve also plays a role in regulating other visceral functions of the body, such as heartbeat and digestion.