A nurse is preparing to perform a cranial nerve examination on a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to check cranial nerve VII?

A. Check the client's visual acuity using a Snellen chart: This assesses cranial nerve II (optic), not cranial nerve VII. B. Observe for facial symmetry while the client smiles: This is the correct method to assess cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), which controls facial muscles, including those responsible for smiling. C. Have the client identify specific smells: This tests cranial nerve I (olfactory), not cranial nerve VII. D. Whisper in one of the client's ears while occluding the other: This assesses cranial nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear), not cranial nerve VII.