How do you assess the facial nerve?

The assessment of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) involves evaluating the facial muscles' movements, which is best achieved through specific actions. Having the patient perform tasks such as smiling, frowning, wrinkling their forehead, whistling, and shutting their eyes tightly allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the motor function of the facial nerve. Each of these actions tests different muscle groups controlled by the facial nerve, providing insight into any potential dysfunction or weakness.

For example, when a patient smiles, it assesses the muscles around the mouth and checks for symmetry. Frowning tests the muscles of the forehead, while closing the eyes tightly assesses the orbicularis oculi muscle's function. Whistling helps evaluate lip musculature. The combination of these movements allows the clinician to assess the integrity of the facial nerve more thoroughly than other options might.

The other options do not focus as effectively on the functions of the facial nerve. Simply asking the patient to touch their forehead and cheeks does not provide sufficient information about facial muscle control. The phrase "Go king kong" lacks relevance to the assessment of facial muscle function. Testing hearing in both ears evaluates a different cranial nerve (vestibulocochlear nerve, cranial nerve VIII) and does