Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the afferent division of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Accepted Answer

It carries sensory information from receptors to the CNS.

Question 2

A patient receives an epidural block during childbirth. Into which space is the anesthetic injected?

Accepted Answer

Epidural space

Question 3

Which meningeal layer is directly attached to the surface of the spinal cord and contains blood vessels supplying the cord?

Accepted Answer

Pia mater

Question 4

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in a typical spinal reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Stimulus arrival → Sensory neuron activation → CNS processing → Motor neuron activation → Effector response

Question 5

Which structure anchors the spinal cord laterally to prevent excessive movement within the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Denticulate ligaments

Question 6

A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is performed to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). From which space is the CSF withdrawn?

Accepted Answer

Subarachnoid space

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the function of the anterior (ventral) root of a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

It contains motor axons leaving the spinal cord.

Question 8

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organization of gray matter in the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

The lateral horn contains motor nuclei for visceral effectors.

Question 9

A patient is unable to move their right leg after a spinal cord injury. Which part of the spinal cord is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Anterior horn on the right side

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between somatic and visceral reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Somatic reflexes control skeletal muscle; visceral reflexes control smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands.

Question 11

Which connective tissue layer surrounds individual axons within a peripheral nerve?

Accepted Answer

Endoneurium

Question 12

Which of the following is a characteristic of the crossed extensor reflex?

Accepted Answer

It is polysynaptic and occurs on the opposite side of the body as the stimulus.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why most nervous system activity occurs automatically?

Accepted Answer

Because most functions are regulated by unconscious reflex pathways.

Question 14

Which of the following is the correct pathway for sensory information from the skin to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Somatic sensory receptor → Afferent division → CNS

Question 15

A patient is unable to feel pain in their left hand but can still move it. Which part of the spinal cord is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Posterior horn on the left side

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of the perineurium?

Accepted Answer

It surrounds a bundle (fascicle) of axons.

Question 17

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the subarachnoid space?

Accepted Answer

It contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of the spinal meninges?

Accepted Answer

To protect, stabilize, and nourish the spinal cord.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of the central canal in the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

It contains cerebrospinal fluid and runs longitudinally through the spinal cord.

Question 20

A patient steps on a sharp object and immediately withdraws their foot. Which reflex is primarily responsible for this action?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawal reflex

Organization and Structure of the Nervous System and Spinal Cord

Study Guide - Practice Questions