When performing a neurologic assessment on an elderly patient, the nurse should be aware that:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Age-related changes, such as slower reflexes, altered gait, and memory decline, are common in elderly patients. Neurologic function may differ from younger individuals.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The trochlear nerve (IV) is the smallest cranial nerve. It innervates the superior oblique muscle, which helps control eye movement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The L5 dermatome supplies the great toe and the dorsum of the foot. This is important in diagnosing lumbar nerve root compression.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The cervical sympathetic trunk runs lateral to the vertebral artery and posterior to the carotid sheath. It contains ganglia that provide sympathetic innervation to the head and neck.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The trochlear nerve (IV) innervates the superior oblique muscle, which depresses and abducts the eye. Paralysis of this nerve prevents downward gaze when the eye is turned inward.