Chapter 29- Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System
1. The central nervous system (CNS) cells, where the impulses for the sympathetic nervous system
... [Show More] (SNS)
originate, are located where?
A) Cranium and sacral area of the spinal cord
B) Hypothalamus and the medulla
C) Nerve membranes
D) Thoracic and lumbar sections of the spinal cord
Ans: D
Feedback:
The SNS is also called the thoracolumbar system because the CNS cells, where the impulses for the
SNS originate, are located in the thoracic and lumbar sections of the spinal cord. The parasympathetic
nervous system (PNS) is called the craniosacral system because the CNS neurons, where the impulses
for the PNS originate, are found in the cranium and the sacral area of the spinal cord. Alpha2
-receptors
are located on nerve membranes and the hypothalamus and medulla are located where the main nerve
centers for the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are located.
2. The nurse assesses that the patient is having a sympathetic response when noting what manifestations?
A) Decrease in sweating, decrease in respirations, and pupil constriction
B) Decrease in heart rate and perfusion, and an increase in inflammatory reactions
C) Increase in blood pressure, bronchodilation, and decreased bowel sounds
D) Increased motility and secretions in the GI tract, and constriction of bronchi and pupils
Ans: C
Feedback:
When stimulated, the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body to flee or to turn and fight (Figure
29.3). Cardiovascular activity increases, as do blood pressure, heart rate, and blood flow to the skeletal
muscles. Respiratory efficiency also increases; bronchi dilate to allow more air to enter with each
breath, and the respiratory rate increases. Pupils dilate to permit more light to enter the eye, to improve
vision in darkened areas (which helps a person to see to fight or flee). Sweating increases to dissipate
heat generated by the increased metabolic activity.
Test Bank - Focus on Nursing Pharmacology (7th Edition by Amy Karch) 470
3. An anatomy and physiology instructor scratches chalk across the blackboard causing a screeching
sound. Several students get a feeling like their hair is standing on end. This response is part of the
sympathetic stress reaction and is called what? [Show Less]