Which cranial nerve is considered to be the final and also the ...

[yoroshambo]

Which cranial nerve is considered to be the final and also the first cranial nerve, where is it located, and what purpose might this nerve serve in humans?

Question 2

What is locked-in syndrome, what causes this disorder, and what impact does this syndrome have on the client?

[leannegxo]

Answer to Question 1

Cranial nerve 0, also called the terminal nerve, is considered by scientists to be the final and also the first cranial nerve. This nerve is located on either side of the nasal septum. While cranial nerve 0 is definitely present in sharks and mammals, there is a controversy among scientists as to whether this nerve exists functionally in humans. Many investigators believe that cranial nerve 0 is present in almost one-half of humans and that individuals may use this nerve as a subconscious means for selecting their mates.

Answer to Question 2

Locked-in syndrome is a devastating disorder that may develop following a brainstem stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA). This disorder causes complete paralysis of all muscles with the exception of the ocular muscles that control movement of the eyes. Usually locked-in syndrome does not impede sensory or cognitive function. Thus the client is able to think normally, but cannot communicate his or her thoughts, feelings, or needs. In order to communicate with others, the client usually must learn a system of eye blinks.