Test: Cranial Nerve I

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Background/Purpose

Procedure

CN I is the olfactory nerve responsible for the special sense of smell. Loss of smell can result from loss of nerve conductance from damage to the nerve itself or an imbalance in adjacent structures. Smell is tested in each nostril separately by placing a scented object under one nostril while simultaneously closing the adjacent nostril. A non-irritating and identifiable substance like cinnamon, coffee, and toothpaste are common. Bilateral loss can occur with rhinitis, smoking, or aging. Unilateral loss indicates a possible nerve lesion or deviated septum.
Performed: Bilaterally

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Olfactory nerve test

Criteria

• Identification of smell bilaterally

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail