Q: Which of the following equations best represents the sequence of events in a typical autonomic motor pathway?

$$\text{CNS} \xrightarrow{\text{preganglionic neuron}} \text{Autonomic ganglion} \xrightarrow{\text{postganglionic neuron}} \text{Effector}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference in motor neuron pathways between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic motor pathways consist of a single, myelinated neuron from the CNS to the effector, while autonomic motor pathways typically consist of two neurons in series.

Question 2

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and inhibited digestion after a car accident. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most likely activated?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the location of cell bodies of sympathetic preganglionic neurons?

Accepted Answer

They are found in the lateral horns of the gray matter in the 12 thoracic and first 2 or 3 lumbar segments.

Question 5

Which type of autonomic ganglia is found in a vertical row on either side of the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic trunk ganglia

Question 6

A drug blocks muscarinic receptors. Which of the following effects would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Reduced activity of parasympathetic effector organs such as decreased glandular secretion and slowed heart rate

Question 7

Which of the following plexuses is NOT typically found in the abdomen or pelvis?

Accepted Answer

Brachial plexus

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions are considered antagonistic?

Accepted Answer

They generally produce opposite effects on target organs, such as heart rate and digestion.

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Receptor → Sensory neuron → Integrating center → Motor neuron → Effector

Question 10

Which of the following statements about cholinergic and adrenergic neurons is correct?

Accepted Answer

Cholinergic neurons release acetylcholine, while adrenergic neurons release norepinephrine.

Question 11

A patient is given a medication that stimulates nicotinic receptors. Which of the following is the most likely effect?

Accepted Answer

Increased activity at autonomic ganglia, leading to enhanced transmission in both sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways

Question 12

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the effector organs of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They include smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands.

Question 13

Which cranial nerves are involved in the parasympathetic outflow from the brain stem?

Accepted Answer

III, VII, IX, and X

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct description of the pathway for sympathetic innervation to the adrenal medulla?

Accepted Answer

Preganglionic neuron passes through both the sympathetic trunk and prevertebral ganglia without synapsing and directly innervates the adrenal medulla.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the neurotransmitter released by postganglionic neurons in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 16

A patient with damage to the lateral gray horns of the thoracic spinal cord would most likely experience deficits in which division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 17

Which of the following is a physiological effect of sympathetic activation during a stressful event?

Accepted Answer

Inhibition of digestive system

Question 18

Which of the following equations best represents the sequence of events in a typical autonomic motor pathway?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{CNS} \xrightarrow{	ext{preganglionic neuron}} 	ext{Autonomic ganglion} \xrightarrow{	ext{postganglionic neuron}} 	ext{Effector}$$

Question 19

Which of the following is a common misconception about the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It only uses acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter at all synapses.

Study Guide: The Autonomic Nervous System (Chapter 15, Principles of Anatomy & Physiology, 14th Edition)

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