Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Which statement is true about the risk of aspiration regarding unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury?

1. It is a minimal risk

2. It is an emergency situation

3. It poses a high risk

4. It rarely occurs

The correct answer is: It poses a high risk

The risk of aspiration associated with unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury is considered high due to the important role this nerve plays in swallowing and airway protection. The recurrent laryngeal nerve is responsible for innervating the majority of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx, which are crucial for maintaining airway safety during swallowing. When this nerve is injured, its paralyzed side may lead to impaired vocal cord function, resulting in the potential for aspiration as food or liquid could enter the airway rather than being directed toward the esophagus. In unilateral cases, although one side can still perform some function, the compromised ability to coordinate the closure of the vocal cords increases the risk of aspiration compared to someone with intact nerve function. This relationship establishes why the risk of aspiration is classified as high in the context of unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.