Question 1

Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between a spinal nerve root and a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

A spinal nerve is formed by the union of a dorsal and a ventral root.

Question 2

Which of the following spinal nerve plexuses is responsible for innervating the diaphragm via the phrenic nerve?

Accepted Answer

Cervical plexus

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Lumbar plexus

Question 4

Which of the following best describes a ganglion in the context of the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

A cluster of neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system

Question 5

The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, emerges from which spinal nerve plexus?

Accepted Answer

Sacral plexus

Question 6

Which of the following is the correct order of structures from the spinal cord outward?

Accepted Answer

Root → Nerve → Ramus → Plexus

Question 7

A person suffers a traumatic injury that damages the brachial plexus. Which of the following functions is most likely to be impaired?

Accepted Answer

Movement and sensation in the upper limb

Question 8

Which ramus of a spinal nerve innervates the muscles and skin of the back?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal ramus

Question 9

Which of the following nerves is NOT derived from the brachial plexus?

Accepted Answer

Femoral nerve

Question 10

A reflex arc involves which of the following sequences?

Accepted Answer

Sensory receptor → Sensory neuron → Integration center → Motor neuron → Effector

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why damage to a single spinal nerve may not result in complete loss of function in a limb?

Accepted Answer

Nerve plexuses allow for overlapping innervation from multiple spinal nerves.

Question 12

Which nerve is responsible for the sensory and motor innervation of the anterior thigh and is a major nerve of the lumbar plexus?

Accepted Answer

Femoral nerve

Question 13

A patient cannot abduct their arm at the shoulder after a car accident. Which nerve and plexus are most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Axillary nerve, brachial plexus

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of the sacral plexus?

Accepted Answer

Innervation of the posterior thigh, most of the lower leg, and foot

Question 15

Which structure contains the cell bodies of sensory neurons entering the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Dorsal root ganglion

The Spinal Nerves: Structure, Plexuses, and Functions

Study Guide - Practice Questions