The nurse is testing the function of CN XI. Which statement best describes the response the nurse should expect if this nerve is intact? The patient.

A. This tests cranial nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear), not cranial nerve XI. B. Moves the head and shoulders against resistance with equal strength. Cranial nerve XI (accessory nerve) innervates the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. The expected response would be equal strength when the patient moves their head and shoulders against resistance. C. Follows an object with his or her eyes without nystagmus or strabismus. This describes the function of cranial nerve II (optic) or cranial nerve III (oculomotor), not cranial nerve XI. D. Sticks out the tongue midline without tremors or deviation. This tests cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal), not cranial nerve XI.