Which of the following divisions of the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for increasing heart rate during compensated shock?

• A. Enteric nervous system
• B. Somatic nervous system
• C. Parasympathetic nervous system
• D. Sympathetic nervous system

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary physiological functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. The ANS is divided into the sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric nervous systems.
2. Recall that the sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which includes increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and redirecting blood flow to essential organs during stress or emergencies.
3. Recognize that compensated shock is a physiological state where the body attempts to maintain adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs despite reduced blood volume or pressure. This often involves activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: The enteric nervous system primarily controls gastrointestinal functions, the somatic nervous system governs voluntary muscle movements, and the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for 'rest and digest' activities, which decrease heart rate.
5. Conclude that the sympathetic nervous system is the correct division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for increasing heart rate during compensated shock.