CNRN Neurological Assessment and Monitoring

Question 1

Which component of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) assesses the patient's ability to follow commands?

Accepted Answer

Motor response

Answer

The motor response component of the GCS evaluates the patient's best motor function, including the ability to follow commands.

Question 2

A CNRN nurse notes that a patient's pupils are 6 mm and non-reactive bilaterally. This finding is MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Midbrain herniation

Answer

Bilateral fixed and dilated pupils indicate midbrain herniation due to compression of the oculomotor (CN III) nerves.

Question 3

When performing a neurological assessment, the nurse tests the patient's ability to identify objects by touch alone. This evaluates which sensory function?

Accepted Answer

Stereognosis

Answer

Stereognosis is the ability to identify objects by touch without visual input, testing parietal lobe sensory integration.

Question 4

Which cranial nerve is tested when the nurse asks the patient to shrug their shoulders against resistance?

Accepted Answer

CN XI

Answer

Cranial nerve XI (spinal accessory nerve) innervates the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, tested by shoulder shrug resistance.

Question 5

A patient exhibits decerebrate posturing. The nurse understands this involves:

Accepted Answer

Extension and internal rotation of all extremities

Answer

Decerebrate posturing involves rigid extension, adduction, and internal rotation of all extremities, indicating severe brainstem injury.

CNRN Test Practice Test

CNRN Test Practice Test

CNRN Neurological Assessment and Monitoring