$$\text{Thickness of spinal cord} \approx \text{Thickness of thumb}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

It relays both sensory and motor signals between the body and the brain.

Question 2

A patient suffers a spinal cord injury at the level of C4. Which of the following complications is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory failure due to inability of the phrenic nerve to reach the diaphragm

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the number of spinal nerves in the human body?

Accepted Answer

$$31 = 8 + 12 + 5 + 5 + 1$$

Question 4

Which structure is responsible for protecting the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

The vertebral column (bone)

Question 5

During a lumbar puncture, why is the needle inserted between L3 and L4?

Accepted Answer

To avoid damaging the spinal cord, which ends above this level

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of the vestibulospinal tract?

Accepted Answer

It is important for the maintenance of posture and balance.

Question 7

If the dorsal root of a spinal nerve is damaged, which of the following symptoms would most likely occur?

Accepted Answer

Loss of sensation in the affected area

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of the meninges?

Accepted Answer

Production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Question 9

A patient presents with loss of both motor and sensory function in the lower limbs. Which spinal cord syndrome is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Anterior cord syndrome

Question 10

Which of the following tracts carries information about fine touch, vibration, and proprioception to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal column tract

Question 11

Which equation best represents the relationship between the thickness of the spinal cord and the thumb?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Thickness of spinal cord} \approx 	ext{Thickness of thumb}$$

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why rabies is so dangerous when injected into skeletal muscle?

Accepted Answer

It can travel up the motor neurons and reach the spinal cord and brain.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct description of the cauda equina?

Accepted Answer

A bundle of nerves that continues below the end of the spinal cord

Question 14

Which plexus is responsible for innervating the diaphragm?

Accepted Answer

Cervical plexus

Question 15

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the spinal cord and its nerves?

Accepted Answer

Spinal nerves exit the vertebral column at each vertebral level.

Question 16

Which tract is important for reflexive movement of the head and eyes?

Accepted Answer

Tectospinal tract

Question 17

A patient is unable to feel pain and temperature in their right leg but can still feel touch and vibration. Which tract is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Spinothalamic tract

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the brachial plexus?

Accepted Answer

Supplies nerves to the arm, shoulder, and chest

Question 19

Which of the following is a consequence of damage to the ventral root of a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

Loss of motor control in the affected area

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the spinal cord does not extend the entire length of the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

The vertebral column grows faster than the spinal cord during development.

Spinal Cord, Spinal Nerves, and Associated Pathways

Study Guide - Practice Questions