Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

Which cranial nerve is responsible for the sense of smell?

1. II (Optic)

2. I (Olfactory)

3. III (Oculomotor)

4. IV (Trochlear)

The correct answer is: I (Olfactory)

The cranial nerve responsible for the sense of smell is the first cranial nerve, also known as the olfactory nerve. This nerve is essential for the detection of volatile substances in the air, allowing the perception of different odors. The olfactory nerve transmits sensory information directly from the nasal cavity to the olfactory bulb in the brain, where it is processed and interpreted. Understanding the role of the olfactory nerve is important in clinical practice, as disorders related to smell can indicate various health issues. For instance, conditions like nasal polyps, neurological disorders, and even some infections can impair the olfactory function. Thus, accurately identifying the olfactory nerve's function provides valuable insight into not only sensory processes but also potential underlying health concerns. The other cranial nerves mentioned do not have a role in the sense of smell. The optic nerve (II) is responsible for vision, the oculomotor nerve (III) controls eye movements and pupil dilation, and the trochlear nerve (IV) also primarily relates to eye movement. Hence, they do not pertain to olfactory sensation.