Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the dorsal root ganglion in a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

It contains the cell bodies of sensory neurons transmitting signals to the CNS.

Question 2

A patient presents with loss of sensation in the anterior thigh and weakness in knee extension. Which nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Femoral nerve

Question 3

Which cranial nerve is responsible for both facial expression and taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve (VII)

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why capsaicin cream can relieve neuropathic pain?

Accepted Answer

Capsaicin desensitizes nociceptors by reducing the generation of action potentials over time.

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organization of a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

The epineurium surrounds the entire nerve, the perineurium surrounds each fascicle, and the endoneurium surrounds each axon.

Question 6

A person is unable to abduct their arm and has numbness over the deltoid region. Which nerve is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Axillary nerve

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the difference between the somatic and autonomic motor divisions of the PNS?

Accepted Answer

The somatic motor division controls skeletal muscles, while the autonomic motor division controls cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands.

Question 8

Which of the following cranial nerves is purely sensory?

Accepted Answer

Optic nerve (II)

Question 9

A patient with Bell’s palsy would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Paralysis of facial muscles on one side, difficulty closing the eye, and altered taste sensation

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of the phrenic nerve?

Accepted Answer

It provides motor innervation to the diaphragm, essential for breathing.

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the components of a reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Sensory receptor → sensory neuron → integrating center → motor neuron → effector

Question 12

Which of the following mechanoreceptors is most responsible for detecting high-frequency vibration and deep pressure?

Accepted Answer

Lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscles

Question 13

A patient is unable to flex their wrist and has numbness in the lateral palm and first three digits. Which nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Median nerve

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why the fingertips have a higher two-point discrimination ability than the forearm?

Accepted Answer

Fingertips have smaller receptive fields and more sensory neurons per area.

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the Golgi tendon reflex?

Accepted Answer

It prevents excessive tension in muscles and tendons by causing muscle relaxation.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the Babinski sign in adults?

Accepted Answer

Extension of the hallux and fanning of the other toes, indicating upper motor neuron damage

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

It regulates involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Question 18

Which cranial nerve is primarily responsible for hearing and balance?

Accepted Answer

Vestibulocochlear nerve (VIII)

Question 19

A patient presents with loss of sensation in the medial half of the fourth digit and the entire fifth digit, as well as weakness in most intrinsic hand muscles. Which nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Ulnar nerve

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of proprioceptors?

Accepted Answer

They detect movement and position of joints and body parts.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards