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Cranial Nerves: Chart & Mnemonic

Nursing Knowledge

Cranial Nerves: Chart & Mnemonic

The 12 cranial nerves play a crucial role in the functioning of the human body, particularly in relation to sensory and motor functions. As a nurse, understanding the anatomy and functions of these nerves is essential for providing comprehensive care to clients. Keep reading for a comprehensive overview chart and tips on how to remember the nerves.
Last updated: December 4, 2023

Table of contents

What are the 12 cranial nerves and their functions?

The cranial nerves are twelve pairs of nerves that originate in the brain and control a variety of functions including sensory perception, motor control, and autonomic functions.

Nerve#Function
OlfactoryISmelling
OpticIIVision
OculomotorIIIEye movementPupillary constrictionAccommodationEyelid opening
TrochlearIVEye movement (up & down, back & forth)
TrigeminalVFacial sensationTastingJaw movements
AbducensVIAbduction of eyes
FacialVIIFacial expressions and tasting
VestibulocochlearVIIIHearingBalance
GlossopharyngealIXTasting and swallowing
VagusXDigestionHeart rate
AccessoryXIMovement of head and shoulders
HypoglossalXIITongue movements

How to remember the cranial nerves

Cranial nerveMnemonicSensory (S), Motor (M), or both (B)
OlfactoryOnlySome
OpticOneSay
OculomotorOfMarry
TrochlearTheMoney
TrigeminalTwoBut
AbducensAthletesMy
FacialFeltBrother
VestibulocochlearVerySays
GlossopharyngealGoodBig
VagusVictoriousBrains
AccessoryAndMatter
HypoglossalHealthyMore

Exam hint

CNs are named and numbered in Roman numerals according to their location, from the front to the back of the brain. 

Learning tip 

Assess CNs three, four and six to see if the eyes do tricks. 

How to assess the cranial nerves

The cranial nerves are assessed through specific tests during a neurological examination.

  • Olfactory (CN I): Ask client to identify different smells.
  • Optic (CN II): Test visual acuity with Snellen chart.
  • Oculomotor (CN III), trochlear (CN IV), abducens (CN VI): Check for pupil size and reactivity to light, ask client to follow your finger with their eyes in an “H” pattern to test extraocular movements.
  • Trigeminal (CN V): Assess facial sensation in three areas (forehead, cheeks, and jaw) and check the jaw-jerk reflex. Also, evaluate the muscles of mastication.
  • Facial (CN VII): Ask client to smile, frown, or puff out their cheeks.
  • Vestibulocochlear (CN VIII): Check hearing using the Rinne and Weber tests and assess balance.
  • Glossopharyngeal (CN IX): Assess the gag reflex and the sense of taste on the posterior third of the tongue.
  • Vagus (CN X): Assess swallowing and speech. The gag reflex also tests the vagus nerve.
  • Accessory (CN XI): Check shoulder shrug strength and head rotation against resistance.
  • Hypoglossal (CN XII): Ask client to stick out their tongue and move it side to side. Assess tongue strength and symmetry.

How does cranial nerve dysfunction impact nursing care?

Cranial nerve dysfunction can significantly impact a client’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. As a nurse, you might need to assist with feeding if the client has difficulty swallowing, or provide safety measures for clients with vision or balance problems. It’s also important to provide emotional support, as changes in functions like speech, swallowing, and facial expression can be distressing.

FREE CHEAT SHEET

Cranial Nerves: Chart & Mnemonic

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Overview of the 12 cranial nerves + powerful mnemonics to help remember them

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