Q: Which equation best represents the relationship between sympathetic tone and blood pressure?

$$BP \propto \text{Sympathetic Tone}$$

Question 1

A patient is experiencing rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, and dry mouth after a car accident. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most likely activated, and what is the primary neurotransmitter released by its postganglionic fibers?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division; norepinephrine (NE)

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the efferent pathway of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

A two-neuron chain consisting of a lightly myelinated preganglionic axon and a nonmyelinated postganglionic axon.

Question 3

A drug that blocks muscarinic receptors would most likely cause which of the following effects?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and decreased digestive activity

Question 4

Which anatomical feature distinguishes the sympathetic division from the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic ganglia are located close to the spinal cord.

Question 5

A patient with diabetes mellitus develops autonomic neuropathy. Which symptom is most likely due to impaired autonomic control?

Accepted Answer

Sluggish pupil reactions

Question 6

Which neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic neurons in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Question 7

A patient is given a drug that stimulates beta-2 adrenergic receptors. What is the expected effect on the bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation

Question 8

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the effects of acetylcholine (ACh) at nicotinic receptors?

Accepted Answer

It is always excitatory.

Question 9

During vigorous exercise, which physiological changes are primarily mediated by the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of bronchioles and increased heart rate

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why the effects of the sympathetic division are more diffuse and longer-lasting than those of the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine and epinephrine released by the adrenal medulla circulate in the blood and are inactivated slowly.

Question 11

A patient with Raynaud's disease experiences painful, pale fingers in response to cold. Which autonomic dysfunction is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Exaggerated sympathetic vasoconstriction

Question 12

Which of the following organs receives only sympathetic innervation?

Accepted Answer

Sweat glands

Question 13

Which equation best represents the relationship between sympathetic tone and blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

$$BP \propto 	ext{Sympathetic Tone}$$

Question 14

A patient is able to consciously slow their heart rate using biofeedback techniques. Which brain region is most directly involved in this voluntary control of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Cerebral cortex

Question 15

Which of the following is a cooperative effect of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Control of external genitalia during sexual function

Question 16

Which of the following statements about visceral reflex arcs is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Their effectors are smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands.

Question 17

A patient is prescribed a beta-blocker to treat hypertension. What is the mechanism by which this drug lowers blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits adrenergic receptors, decreasing sympathetic stimulation of the heart.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the location of parasympathetic ganglia?

Accepted Answer

Within the wall of the organ served or close to the organ

Question 19

Which cranial nerve accounts for approximately 90% of all preganglionic parasympathetic fibers in the body?

Accepted Answer

Vagus nerve (X)

Chapter 14: The Autonomic Nervous System – Structured Study Notes

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