Instruct the patient to identify familiar liquids (i.e., sugar water, salt water, lemon juice) placed on tongue with a sterile cotton swab or sterile medicine dropper. Test the anterior 2/3's of the tongue (CN VII) by alternately placing two to three familiar liquids on each side of the anterior 2/3's of the tongue (pictured to the right). Also, test the posterior 1/3 of the tongue (CN IX) in a similar manner. Document normal or abnormal responses.

Special Instructions or Considerations

• Use stimulus tastes in very small quantities
• Use a separate swab or dropper for each stimulus taste
• Avoid stimulus materials that are contraindicated secondary to food allergies or medical conditions