A patient exhibits sudden, severe headache and neck stiffness. What should the nurse do first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Sudden, severe headache and neck stiffness may indicate meningitis. A neurologic assessment and evaluation for meningeal irritation are critical. Blood pressure, glucose levels, and throat inspection are secondary.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A positive Babinski sign in an adult indicates possible neurological dysfunction and requires documentation and further evaluation. Ignoring the finding or assessing unrelated parameters is inappropriate.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Motor nerve fibers, such as alpha motor neurons, typically have a diameter of 12-20 micrometers. Larger diameters allow for faster conduction of action potentials.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The vagus nerve receives motor fibers from the nucleus ambiguus, which also contributes to the accessory nerve. It innervates muscles of the pharynx and larynx.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The tractus solitarius is involved in taste and visceral sensation, not posture and movement. The spinocerebellar and vestibulospinal tracts are involved in motor coordination and balance.