Question 1

Which of the following best describes a reflex?

Accepted Answer

An involuntary, predictable motor response to a specific stimulus

Question 2

Which component of the reflex arc is responsible for integrating sensory information and determining the response?

Accepted Answer

Central nervous system (CNS)

Question 3

A patient accidentally touches a hot stove and immediately withdraws their hand. Which type of reflex is this?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawal (flexor) reflex

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a typical reflex?

Accepted Answer

The response requires conscious intent

Question 5

In a simple reflex arc, which sequence correctly describes the flow of information?

Accepted Answer

Receptor → Sensory neuron → CNS → Motor neuron → Effector

Question 6

Which of the following reflexes involves only one synapse between the sensory and motor neuron?

Accepted Answer

Monosynaptic reflex

Question 7

Which equation best represents the calculation of blood pressure using systolic and diastolic values?

Accepted Answer

Question 8

Which of the following is TRUE regarding autonomic reflexes compared to somatic reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Autonomic reflexes are typically slower and involve smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, or glands

Question 9

A patient’s patellar reflex is tested using a reflex hammer. Which type of reflex is being assessed?

Accepted Answer

Stretch (knee-jerk) reflex

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the effector organ in a somatic reflex?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle

Question 11

Which branch of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for promoting 'rest and digest' activities?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic nervous system

Question 12

During a blood pressure measurement, which sound is used to determine systolic pressure?

Accepted Answer

The first Korotkoff sound heard as the cuff pressure is released

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct functional classification of reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Somatic reflexes control skeletal muscle; autonomic reflexes control smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, or glands

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct comparison between cranial and spinal reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Cranial reflexes are integrated in the brain; spinal reflexes are integrated in the spinal cord

Question 15

A patient presents with a blood pressure of 185/120 mmHg. According to the provided stages, what is the correct classification?

Accepted Answer

Hypertensive crisis (emergency care)

Question 16

Which of the following is TRUE about polysynaptic reflexes?

Accepted Answer

They involve multiple synapses and interneurons, making them more complex

Question 17

Which of the following is the correct order of events in an autonomic reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Receptor → Sensory neuron → Integration center → Motor neuron → Effector

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates activity and inhibits bladder contraction

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the response in a reflex arc is rapid?

Accepted Answer

It involves a chain of only a few neurons and minimal synapses

Question 20

A patient is unable to perform the withdrawal reflex after a painful stimulus. Which component of the reflex arc is MOST likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Integration center (CNS)

CNS Physiology & Reflex Actions: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions