Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

It oversees vital involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion through visceral reflex arcs.

Question 2

Which neurotransmitter is released by most postganglionic sympathetic neurons?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 3

A patient is prescribed a drug that acts as a beta-2 agonist. Which of the following effects is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation

Question 4

Which of the following accurately compares the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic motor neurons directly innervate skeletal muscle fibers and are always excitatory, while autonomic neurons innervate smooth and cardiac muscle and can be excitatory or inhibitory.

Question 5

Which of the following is a correct pathway for a sympathetic preganglionic neuron?

Accepted Answer

Originates in the thoracic or lumbar spinal cord, exits via the anterior root, and synapses in a sympathetic chain ganglion.

Question 6

Which receptor type is primarily responsible for vasoconstriction of blood vessels in the skin during sympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-1 receptor

Question 7

A person experiences an 'adrenaline rush' during a stressful event. Which of the following best explains the physiological mechanism behind this response?

Accepted Answer

The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream, prolonging sympathetic effects.

Question 8

Which of the following is a direct effect of parasympathetic stimulation on the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

Increased peristalsis and secretion of digestive enzymes

Question 9

A patient is given atropine, a muscarinic antagonist, before eye surgery. What is the expected effect on the pupil?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of the pupil (mydriasis)

Question 10

Which cranial nerve provides about 90% of parasympathetic innervation to the body?

Accepted Answer

Vagus nerve (X)

Question 11

Which of the following best describes dual innervation in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Most organs receive input from both sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons, which usually have antagonistic effects.

Question 12

A patient with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) stands up and experiences dizziness and rapid heart rate. Which of the following best explains the underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Excessive sympathetic activity or sensitivity to epinephrine and norepinephrine causes tachycardia and vasodilation.

Question 13

Which of the following drugs would be most appropriate to treat asthma by targeting the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

A beta-2 adrenergic agonist

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct statement about autonomic tone?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic tone is dominant in blood vessels, while parasympathetic tone is dominant in the heart and digestive system.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why a person may experience dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision as side effects of certain medications?

Accepted Answer

The medications block acetylcholine release or receptors, reducing parasympathetic nervous system effects.

Question 16

Which of the following is a real-life example of the antagonistic effects of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic stimulation increases heart rate during exercise, while parasympathetic stimulation decreases heart rate during rest.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of the hypothalamus in autonomic nervous system regulation?

Accepted Answer

It integrates input from higher brain centers and sends signals to autonomic centers in the reticular formation.

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

Afferent neuron → CNS → Efferent neuron → Autonomic ganglion → Target organ

The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards