Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a symptom of superior laryngeal nerve injury?

1. Stridor

2. Weak voice

3. Hoarse voice

4. Difficulty breathing

The correct answer is: Hoarse voice

A symptom of superior laryngeal nerve injury is characterized by a hoarse voice. The superior laryngeal nerve plays a crucial role in innervating the cricothyroid muscle, which is responsible for tensioning the vocal cords and controlling pitch. When this nerve is injured, the ability to adjust the tension and position of the vocal folds is compromised, leading to changes in voice quality, most notably hoarseness. In terms of vocal function, individuals with impairment of the superior laryngeal nerve may find their voice lacks clarity and strength, which may not necessarily lead to breath-related difficulties or acute airway obstruction. Other symptoms can emerge from broader laryngeal dysfunctions but are not directly linked to isolated superior laryngeal nerve injury.