The nurse is caring for a patient with an injury to cranial nerve X.Which assessment finding would the nurse attribute to that injury?
A)Rectal bleeding
B)Dry mouth
C)A metallic taste in the mouth
D)Decreased bowel sounds

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cranial nerve X, also known as the vagus nerve, innervates the digestive tract and is responsible for controlling gastrointestinal motility. Therefore, a patient with an injury to cranial nerve X may exhibit decreased bowel sounds as a result of impaired digestive function. Rectal bleeding, dry mouth, and a metallic taste in the mouth are not typically associated with an injury to the vagus nerve.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with an Injury