Chapter 9: Autonomic Nervous System

Chapter 9: Autonomic Nervous System

Complete Chapter Questions With Answers

Sample Questions Are Posted Below

1. During acute appendicitis, the contribution of the somatosensory nociceptive afferents is which of the following?
2. Regulation of visceral function
3. Production of skeletal muscle guarding to protect the appendix
4. Modulation of respiratory function
5. Signaling visceral distress to the brain
6. Signaling conscious awareness of pain in the umbilical region

ANS: E

Rationale: Stimulation of nociceptive second-order neurons results in pain sensation referred to the umbilical region (see Figure 9-4).

2. Areas of the central nervous system (CNS) that modulate autonomic control include which one of the following?
3. Thalamus
4. Hypothalamus
5. Limbic system
6. Both A and B
7. A, B, and C

ANS: E

Rationale: The hypothalamus, thalamus, and limbic system modulate brainstem autonomic control.

3. Which one of the following is NOT a characteristic of the autonomic efferent system?
4. Innervates blood vessels in skeletal muscle.
5. Hormones regulate effector control.
6. Is usually a two-neuron pathway with a synapse outside the CNS.
7. Activation of effectors is usually voluntary.
8. Neurotransmitters are used for signaling.

ANS: D.

Rationale: Unlike the somatic nervous system, regulation of autonomic functions is typically nonconscious and can be exerted by hormones.

4. Sympathetic activation does NOT produce which of the following?
5. Increased blood flow to active muscles
6. Increased blood glucose levels
7. Increased digestive activity
8. Dilation of bronchioles
9. Increased heart rate

ANS: C

Rationale: The role of the sympathetic nervous system is often illustrated by describing the physiologic responses to fear. When an individual feels threatened, the sympathetic nervous system prepares for vigorous muscle activity; that is, it prepares for fight or flight. Vasoconstriction in the skin and gut increases blood flow to active muscles. Blood glucose levels increase, bronchi and coronary vessels dilate, and blood pressure and heart rate increase. Simultaneously, sympathetic firing reduces activity in the digestive system.