Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the blood-brain barrier?

Accepted Answer

It restricts the passage of many potentially harmful substances while allowing essential nutrients like oxygen, glucose, and amino acids to pass.

Question 2

A patient is exposed to a neurotoxin that cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. Which of the following is the most likely reason for this?

Accepted Answer

The neurotoxin is a large, polar molecule that cannot pass through the least permeable capillaries of the CNS.

Question 3

Which structure marks the inferior end of the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Conus medullaris at approximately the level of $$L_1 or$$ $$L_2$$

Question 4

A patient suffers a spinal cord injury at the level of $$T_{12}. $$Which of the following spinal nerves would most likely be affected?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar spinal nerves

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the cauda equina?

Accepted Answer

A collection of spinal nerves at the inferior end of the vertebral canal

Question 6

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organization of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Accepted Answer

The PNS includes nerves and ganglia outside the CNS.

Question 7

A mixed nerve contains:

Accepted Answer

Both sensory and motor fibers

Question 8

Which cranial nerve extends beyond the head and neck to innervate thoracic and abdominal organs?

Accepted Answer

Vagus nerve (X)

Question 9

A patient presents with loss of sensation and motor function in the anterior thigh. Which nerve plexus is most likely involved?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar plexus

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

It regulates involuntary activities of cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands.

Question 11

Which neurotransmitter is released by preganglionic neurons in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 12

During a stressful situation, which division of the autonomic nervous system is primarily activated, and what is its main effect?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division; prepares the body for 'fight or flight' by increasing heart rate and blood flow to muscles

Question 13

Which of the following is a key difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

The sympathetic division originates from thoracic and lumbar regions, while the parasympathetic division originates from cranial and sacral regions.

Question 14

A patient is unable to sweat and has dry skin. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of the dorsal root of a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

It contains sensory fibers that carry information to the spinal cord.

Question 16

A person is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity. Which neurotransmitter is most likely responsible for these effects at the target organs?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine (adrenaline)

Question 17

Which of the following equations best represents the conduction velocity ($$v) of a $$nerve fiber as a function of its diameter ($$d$$), assuming myelination and temperature are constant?

Accepted Answer

$$v = k 	imes d$$

Question 18

A patient has damage to the ventral root of a spinal nerve. Which of the following symptoms would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Loss of motor function in the affected area

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the blood-brain barrier is important for neural function?

Accepted Answer

It protects the brain from fluctuations in plasma composition and from circulating toxins.

Question 20

A patient is experiencing difficulty with voluntary movement but has normal autonomic function. Which part of the nervous system is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Somatic nervous system

Study Notes: The Nervous System – Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards