Which cranial nerves are both sensory and motor?

Cranial nerves that have both sensory and motor functions play important roles in various physiological processes. In this case, the correct option includes the trigeminal nerve (5), facial nerve (7), glossopharyngeal nerve (9), and vagus nerve (10).

The trigeminal nerve is primarily responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. The facial nerve manages facial expressions and taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. The glossopharyngeal nerve has a sensory role in taste from the posterior one-third of the tongue and motor functions related to swallowing and salivary secretion. Lastly, the vagus nerve extensively regulates autonomic functions of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract while also carrying sensory information.

Understanding the functions of these cranial nerves can enhance assessments and interventions in adult-gerontology patients. For instance, knowing that the facial nerve contributes to facial muscle movement can inform an evaluation of stroke symptoms, while awareness of vagal tone is essential in managing cardiac patients.

While other options contain cranial nerves that may be purely sensory or purely motor, they do not encompass the complete range of cranial nerves that display both functions, making the selected answer the most accurate reflection of