Chapter 46: Physiology of the Autonomic and Central Nervous System
A client admitted to a cardiac unit asks why a rest period is required each afternoon. The nurse's response should be based on what information regarding the PNS? "It is a time for all health care providers to complete documentation and review test results." "Clients are encouraged to rest and relax during this time, free of families and visitors." "The nurses will be able to get some rest from the clients and other health care providers." "Families and visitors are encouraged to get lunch and rest during this time."
"Clients are encouraged to rest and relax during this time, free of families and visitors." Explanation: The client has identified the need for rest during the established time frame. It is not a time for health care providers or nurses to complete documentation and review test results or for the family to get lunch and rest. The focus is on the client and the necessity to have a set period in the day for the restorative function of the parasympathetic nervous system to rest and repair.
The nurse is caring for a client who is under psychological and physiological stress. During sympathetic stimulation, the nurse should identify which neurotransmitter as being released by the preganglionic nerves of the sympathetic nervous system? · Acetylcholine · Dopamine · Epinephrine · Norepinephrine
Acetylcholine Explanation: Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter released by preganglionic nerves of the sympathetic nervous system and the pre- and post-ganglionic nerves of the parasympathetic nervous system. Dopamine is converted to norepinephrine in the adrenergic cells. Norepinephrine is involved in post-ganglionic activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Epinephrine is involved in the adrenergic response, being secreted directly into the bloodstream by the adrenal medulla
What does the body create using choline? · Dopamine · Cholesterol · Tyramine · Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine Explanation: The nerves that produce acetylcholine use choline from the diet to produce the neurotransmitter.
Nicotinic receptors would be found in which location? · Gastrointestinal tract · Sweat glands · Adrenal medulla · Bladder
Adrenal medulla Explanation: Nicotinic receptors are found in the CNS, the adrenal medulla, the autonomic ganglia, and the neuromuscular junction. Muscarinic receptors are found in the sweat glands, bladder and GI tract.
Nerve fibers secreting norepinephrine are called: · Adrenergic · Ganglia · Ligand · Afferent
Adrenergic Explanation: Norepinephrine is released at most postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system. Nerve fibers secreting norepinephrine are called adrenergic fibers. Ligands are substances that bind to receptors. Afferent neurons carry sensory input from the periphery to the CNS and modify motor output through the action of reflex arcs. Ganglia are nerve cell clusters that house the cell bodies of the afferent nerves.
What helps to prevent overstimulation of effector sites on nerve membranes? · Alpha1-receptors · Beta2-receptors · Beta1-receptors · Alpha2-receptors
Alpha2-receptors Explanation: Alpha2-receptors are located on nerve membranes and act as modulators of norepinephrine release. When norepinephrine is released from a nerve ending, it crosses the synaptic cleft to react with its specific receptor site. Some of it also flows back to react with the alpha-receptor on the nerve membrane. This causes a reflex decrease in norepinephrine release. In this way, the Alpha2-receptors help to prevent overstimulation of effector sites.
A client with asthma is prescribed albuterol to dilate the bronchioles. The nurse understands that this drug is likely acting on which receptors? Beta-1 Beta-2 Alpha-1 Alpha-2
Beta-2 Explanation: Bronchodilation occurs with stimulation of beta-2 receptor sites. Vasoconstriction and increased peripheral vascular resistance occurs with alpha-1 receptor stimulation. Overstimulation of effector sites and moderate insulin release occurs with alpha-2 stimulation. Increased heart rate occurs with beta-1 receptor stimulation.
The anatomy and physiology instructor is discussing adrenergic receptors with the nursing class. What adrenergic receptor would the instructor tell the students is found in the heart and can stimulate increased myocardial activity and increase heart rate? · Alpha1 · Alpha2 · Beta1 · Beta2
Beta1 Explanation: B1 receptors are found in cardiac tissue where they can stimulate increased myocardial activity and increased heart rate. Alpha1 receptors are found in blood vessels, in the iris, and in the urinary bladder. Alpha2 receptors are located on nerve membranes and act as modulators of norepinephrine release. Beta2 receptors are found in smooth muscle in blood vessels, in the bronchi, in the periphery, and in uterine muscle
Which effect results from activation of beta2 receptors? · Bronchoconstriction · Pupil constriction · Decreased heart rate · Bronchodilation
Bronchodilation Explanation: Activation of beta2 receptors results in bronchodilation
Which effect results from activation of beta2 receptors? Bronchodilation Pupil constriction Bronchoconstriction Decreased heart rate
Bronchodilation Explanation: Activation of beta2 receptors results in bronchodilation.
Which effect results from activation of beta2 receptors? · Pupil constriction · Bronchoconstriction · Decreased heart rate · Bronchodilation
Bronchodilation Explanation: Activation of beta2 receptors results in bronchodilation.
Neurons communicate through the use of synapses. These synapses may link neurons into functional circuits. How do the neurons communicate through the synapses? · Chemically · Excitatorily · Electrically · Inhibitorily
Chemically Explanation: Norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, belongs to a group of structurally related chemicals called catecholamines that also includes dopamine, serotonin, and epinephrine. Neurons do not communicate electrically, excitatorily, or inhibitorily
The nursing instructor is explaining the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in influencing body functions. Which change in a patient's body functions would be directly related to the stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system? · Decreased heart rate · Pupil dilation · Poor motility of the gastrointestinal tract · Increased heart rate
Decreased heart rate Explanation: Specific body responses to parasympathetic stimulation include decreased heart rate, increased motility of the gastrointestinal tract, and pupil constriction.
A patient with Parkinson's disease is being cared for on your unit. The nurse would be correct in identifying what neurotransmitter as being decreased in this disease? · Neurontin · Dopamine · Acetylcholine · Serotonin
Dopamine Explanation: Parkinson's disease develops from decreased availability of dopamine, while acetylcholine binding to muscle cells is impaired in myasthenia gravis. Therefore options A, C, and D are incorrect.
Parkinson's disease is associated with a decrease in which of the following neurotransmitters? · Glutamate · Acetylcholine · Dopamine · Serotonin
Dopamine Explanation: Parkinson's disease is a disorder caused by destruction of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra
Parkinson's disease is associated with a decrease in which of the following neurotransmitters? Glutamate Serotonin Dopamine Acetylcholine
Dopamine Explanation: Parkinson's disease is a disorder caused by destruction of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra.
The body uses tyrosine in the diet to make what substance? · Glutamate · Norepinephrine · Serotonin · Estrogen
Estrogen · Norepinephrine Explanation: Norepinephrine is made by adrenergic nerves using tyrosine from the diet
Activation of D2 receptors is thought to result in which of the following events? Calcium- and potassium-ion currents are maintained. Activity of adenyl cyclase is stimulated. Formation of cAMP is stimulated. Formation of cAMP is inhibited.
Formation of cAMP is inhibited. Explanation: Activation of the dopaminergic receptor D2 is thought to inhibit formation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and to alter calcium- and potassium-ion currents.
What is the resulting physiologic effect when the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated? Pupil dilation Increased GI motility Decreased GI secretions Increased heart rate
Increased GI motility Explanation: When the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated, the result is increased GI motility, decreased GI secretions, decreased heart rate, and pupillary constriction, which all result from stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.
A preoperative client admits to feeling intensely anxious about surgery and the nurse recognizes that the client's sympathetic nervous system is stimulated. What assessment findings should the nurse attribute to this stimulation? Select all that apply. · Increased respiratory rate · Dilated pupils · Increased bowel sounds · Increased blood pressure · Increased sweating
Increased respiratory rate · Dilated pupils · Increased blood pressure · Increased sweating Explanation: Sympathetic stimulation causes pupil dilation and increases in blood pressure, respiratory rate and perspiration. Gastrointestinal motility slows, so the nurse would more likely assess decreased bowel sounds
A nurse is reviewing the structure and function of the nervous system in preparation for working on a neurological floor. What characteristic of neurons should the nurse identify? · The ability to generate new nerves after injury ceases near puberty. · Dendrites are roughly equal in size to axons. · Neurons are unique among body cells because they do not have a nucleus. · Neurons convey action potentials to other neurons without being in physical contact.
Neurons convey action potentials to other neurons without being in physical contact. Explanation: Nerve to nerve communication occurs across synaptic clefts; the two nerves that communicate to each other are not in physical contact. Neurons have nuclei and axons are sometimes exponentially longer than dendrites. New nerves cannot be produced.
The anatomy and physiology instructor is discussing the role of neurotransmitters in the autonomic nervous system. Which would the instructor identify as the main adrenergic neurotransmitter? · Acetylcholine · Dopamine · Norepinephrine · Epinephrine
Norepinephrine Explanation: Adrenergic refers to the sympathetic nervous system. The main neurotransmitter of the sympathetic nervous system is norepinephrine
Parasympathetic stimulation causes the release of nitrous oxide from the endothelium of blood vessels. Which of the following results from this release? · Increased inflammation · Relaxation of vascular smooth muscle · Increased platelet aggregation · Constriction of blood vessels
Relaxation of vascular smooth muscle Explanation: The release of nitrous oxide from the endothelium results in decreased platelet aggregation, decreased inflammation, relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, and dilation of blood vessels
Parasympathetic stimulation causes the release of nitrous oxide from the endothelium of blood vessels. Which of the following results from this release? Constriction of blood vessels Increased inflammation Relaxation of vascular smooth muscle Increased platelet aggregation
Relaxation of vascular smooth muscle Explanation: The release of nitrous oxide from the endothelium results in decreased platelet aggregation, decreased inflammation, relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, and dilation of blood vessels.
The nurse is caring for a client with asthma who has been experiencing shortness of breath and who has been administered a medication to cause bronchodilation. What aspect of autonomic nervous function has the nurse most likely influenced? Reuptake of acetylcholine Synthesis of acetylcholinesterase Stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors Inhibition of alpha-adrenergic receptors
Stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors Explanation: Stimulation of beta receptors causes bronchodilation, which is the therapeutic effect of several medications for asthma. The bronchi are not primarily affected by the presence of acetylcholine receptors. Inhibiting the alpha adrenergic receptors does not cause bronchodilation.
A signal has reached the terminus of a client's nerve and is in the space where the nerve is closest to the effector cell in a muscle. At what location is this signal? · Soma · Synapse · Neuron · Schwann cell
Synapse Explanation: The synapse refers to the junction between a nerve and an effector such as a gland, muscle, or other nerve. The neuron is the basic structural unit of the nervous system. Soma refers to the cell body of a neuron. A Schwann cell is a specialized insulating cell on nerve axons
A signal has reached the terminus of a client's nerve and is in the space where the nerve is closest to the effector cell in a muscle. At what location is this signal? Soma Neuron Synapse Schwann cell
Synapse Explanation: The synapse refers to the junction between a nerve and an effector such as a gland, muscle, or other nerve. The neuron is the basic structural unit of the nervous system. Soma refers to the cell body of a neuron. A Schwann cell is a specialized insulating cell on nerve axons.
The neurotransmission system of the human body is a communication network. What is this network composed of? (Mark all that apply.) · Complexes · Receptors · Synapses · Antigens · Neurotransmitters
Synapses Neurotransmitters Receptors Explanation: Specific components of the neurotransmission network include neurotransmitters, synapses, and receptors.
The nurse is conducting an assessment of a newly admitted client. What assessment finding should suggest to the nurse that the client's muscarinic cholinergic receptors are being stimulated? The client's attention span is unusually short. The client describes a frontal lobe headache. The client's blood pressure is 119/72 mmHg. The client has "pinpoint" pupils.
The client has "pinpoint" pupils. Explanation: Pupil constriction is among the effect of parasympathetic stimulation of muscarinic cholinergic receptors. Pain and cognition are not affected by these receptors. The client's blood pressure is well within acceptable ranges; there is no obvious indication of parasympathetic stimulation.
What statement best explains the central and peripheral nervous system? · The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. · Structures of the central nervous system include the brain, neurons, and ganglia. · The central nervous system (CNS) can be broken down into the somatic and autonomic pathways. · Structures of the peripheral nervous system include the hypothalamus, brain stem, and spinal column.
The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. Explanation: The nervous system has two main divisions: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes the neurons and ganglia around outside the CNS. The efferent portion of the PNS has two subdivisions: the somatic and autonomic nervous system
What statement best explains the central and peripheral nervous system? The central nervous system (CNS) can be broken down into the somatic and autonomic pathways. Structures of the peripheral nervous system include the hypothalamus, brain stem, and spinal column. Structures of the central nervous system include the brain, neurons, and ganglia. The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system.
The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. Explanation: The nervous system has two main divisions: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes the neurons and ganglia around outside the CNS. The efferent portion of the PNS has two subdivisions: the somatic and autonomic nervous system.
Which client's nicotinic receptors are likely being stimulated the most? · a client who is anxious while waiting in the preoperative area · a client who is taking medications for the treatment of Parkinson disease · a client who has increased bowel motility causing diarrhea · a client taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for depression
a client who is anxious while waiting in the preoperative area Explanation: Stimulation of nicotinic receptors causes skeletal muscle contractions, autonomic responses such as signs and symptoms of a stress reaction, and release of norepinephrine and epinephrine from the adrenal medulla. These receptors do not respond to levels of dopamine or serotonin. Increased bowel motility is more closely associated with stimulation of muscarinic receptors
A client's muscle weakness has been found to result from a lack of neurotransmitter communication between nerves and muscles. What neurotransmitter is most likely deficient? · dopamine · gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) · serotonin · acetylcholine
acetylcholine Explanation: Acetylcholine communicates between nerves and muscles. Dopamine is involved in the coordination of impulses and responses, both motor and intellectual. GABA inhibits nerve activity. Serotonin is important in arousal and sleep
A nurse is caring for a patient who is having a sympathetic response. A sympathetic response involves: increased motility, secretions in the GI tract, and constriction of bronchi and pupils an increase in blood pressure, bronchi dilation, and decreased bowel sounds a decrease in sweating, decrease in respirations, and pupil constriction. a decrease in heart rate, decrease in blood flow to skeletal muscles, and increase in inflammatory reactions.
an increase in blood pressure, bronchi dilation, and decreased bowel sounds Explanation: Increase in blood pressure, bronchi dilation, and decreased bowel sounds are responses to sympathetic stimulation. Decrease in sweating, respirations, heart rate, and blood flow to skeletal muscles and increase in motility and secretions of GI tract and inflammatory reactions, and pupil and bronchi constrictions indicate parasympathetic stimulation.
A client's nerves have been stimulated and the signal has reached the axon. How will communication continue? · by the release of a neurotransmitter · by physically stimulating the nerve on the other side of the synapse · The nerve signal will cease at this point. · through the production of an electrical signal
by the release of a neurotransmitter Explanation: The transmission of information between two nerves or between a nerve and a gland or muscle is chemical , achieved by the release of a neurotransmitter. Communication is not electrical or physical, and communication does not necessarily cease at the axon
After teaching a group of students about the functions of the nervous system, the instructor determines that the teaching was effective when the students identify that a function is: · control of body functions. · prevention of stimulus exposure. · generation of incoming stimuli. · separation of responses.
control of body functions. Explanation: The nervous system is responsible for controlling body function, analyzing incoming stimuli, and integrating internal and external responses
The nurse administers a drug that stimulates beta2 receptors. What type of health condition would this drug treat? · heart disease · diabetes · high lipid levels · respiratory disease
respiratory disease Explanation: Beta2-receptors are found in the smooth muscle in blood vessels, in the bronchi, in the periphery, and in uterine muscle. Beta2-receptors also cause dilation in the bronchi. Beta1-receptor stimulation would improve some heart disease and are responsible for increased lipolysis. Because beta2-receptors increase release of glucagon and the breakdown of glycogen, increasing serum glucose levels, stimulation of these receptors would exacerbate diabetes
The nurse is caring for a client with asthma who has been administered albuterol in order to promote bronchodilation and relieve shortness of breath. When giving this medication, the nurse has affected the client's autonomic nervous system by: · converting a larger proportion of dopamine to norepinephrine. · stimulating beta2-receptors. · decreasing the reuptake of acetylcholine. · antagonizing alpha2-receptors.
stimulating beta2-receptors. Explanation: Stimulation of beta2-receptors causes bronchial dilation. Manipulation of acetylcholine levels does not cause this effect, not does increasing norepinephrine levels. Antagonizing the alpha2-receptors would not have this effect
A client has begun to experience post-operative pain and the client's heart rate has increased from 72 beats per minute to 96 beats per minute. The nurse should attribute this change to the effect of: conversion of norepinephrine to dopamine in synapses of the sympathetic nervous system. stimulation of muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system. stimulation of beta1 receptors in the sympathetic nervous system. reuptake of norepinephrine in synapses of the sympathetic nervous system.
stimulation of beta1 receptors in the sympathetic nervous system. Explanation: Stimulation of beta1 receptors increases heart rate. Reuptake of norepinephrine limits the sympathetic response. Stimulation of muscarinic receptors would cause a decrease in heart rate. Dopamine is converted to norepinephrine in the SNS; norepinephrine is not converted to dopamine.
The nurse accompanies the healthcare provider into the client's room and remains after the client is told that they have cancer and a poor prognosis. The client's respirations become rapid and deep, their pupils dilate, and they appear diaphoretic. What type of response is the nurse witnessing? · parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) response · muscarinic receptor stimulation response · nicotinic receptor stimulation response · sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response
sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response Explanation: When stimulated, the SNS prepares the body to flee or to turn and fight. 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. PNS would lower heart rate and blood pressure and would constrict pupils. The client's response could not be wholly isolated to a muscarinic or nicotinic response
A client has a neurologic disorder characterized by a deficiency of acetylcholine. In what location is acetylcholine normally synthesized? · within the gray matter of the spinal cord · in the synaptic cleft between nerves and effector cells · within cholinergic nerves themselves · in the adrenal medulla
within cholinergic nerves themselves Explanation: Cholinergic nerves use choline, obtained in the diet, to produce ACh. It is not produced in the synaptic cleft, in the adrenal medulla, or in the spinal cord.
A client has been administered phenylephrine, a medication that affects alpha1-receptors. The nurse should anticipate what effects on the client? Select all that apply. · pupil dilation · flushed skin · decreased blood glucose · drowsiness · increased blood pressure
· pupil dilation · increased blood pressure Explanation: Alpha1-receptors are found in blood vessels and in the iris, leading to increased blood pressure and pupil dilation. Because of vasoconstriction, flushed skin would be unlikely. Stimulation of alpha1-receptors does not cause drowsiness or decreased glucose levels
The anatomy and physiology instructor is discussing adrenergic receptors with the nursing class. What adrenergic receptor would the instructor tell the students is found in the heart and can stimulate increased myocardial activity and increase heart rate? Beta2 Beta1 Alpha2 Alpha1
Beta1 Explanation: B1 receptors are found in cardiac tissue where they can stimulate increased myocardial activity and increased heart rate. Alpha1 receptors are found in blood vessels, in the iris, and in the urinary bladder. Alpha2 receptors are located on nerve membranes and act as modulators of norepinephrine release. Beta2 receptors are found in smooth muscle in blood vessels, in the bronchi, in the periphery, and in uterine muscle.
A nurse is reading an article about the fight or flight response that includes a discussion of a neurotransmitter. Which neurotransmitter most likely would be addressed? · GABA · Serotonin · Dopamine · Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine Explanation: Norepinephrine is a catecholamine involved in the fight or flight response. GABA is important in preventing overexcitability or stimulation of nerve activity. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter involved in arousal and sleep. Dopamine is involved in the coordination of impulses and responses, both motor and intellectual.
The body uses tyrosine in the diet to make what substance? · Norepinephrine · Estrogen · Serotonin · Glutamate
Norepinephrine Explanation: Norepinephrine is made by adrenergic nerves using tyrosine from the diet.
The nurse is assessing a client. What assessment finding is the clearest indicator of autonomic function? · The client can discern hot sensation from cold · The client's hearing is intact · The client's muscle strength is equal bilaterally · The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute
The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute Explanation: The autonomic nervous system functions to regulate respirations. Voluntary motor function, hearing and sensation are not primarily within the ANS
The nurse is caring for a client with asthma who has been experiencing shortness of breath and who has been administered a medication to cause bronchodilation. What aspect of autonomic nervous function has the nurse most likely influenced? · Synthesis of acetylcholinesterase · Stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors · Inhibition of alpha-adrenergic receptors · Reuptake of acetylcholine
Stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors Explanation: Stimulation of beta receptors causes bronchodilation, which is the therapeutic effect of several medications for asthma. The bronchi are not primarily affected by the presence of acetylcholine receptors. Inhibiting the alpha adrenergic receptors does not cause bronchodilation.
The neurotransmission system of the human body is a communication network. What is this network composed of? (Mark all that apply.) Synapses Neurotransmitters Antigens Complexes Receptors
Synapses Neurotransmitters Receptors Specific components of the neurotransmission network include neurotransmitters, synapses, and receptors.
The nurse is conducting an assessment of a newly admitted client. What assessment finding should suggest to the nurse that the client's muscarinic cholinergic receptors are being stimulated? · The client has "pinpoint" pupils. · The client describes a frontal lobe headache. · The client's attention span is unusually short. · The client's blood pressure is 119/72 mmHg.
The client has "pinpoint" pupils. Explanation: Pupil constriction is among the effect of parasympathetic stimulation of muscarinic cholinergic receptors. Pain and cognition are not affected by these receptors. The client's blood pressure is well within acceptable ranges; there is no obvious indication of parasympathetic stimulation
A client has been prescribed a medication that antagonizes the beta receptors of the sympathetic nervous system. What assessment finding should the nurse attribute to the effects of this medication? · The client's blood pressure is decreased · The client's nausea is relieved · The client denies shortness of breath · The client denies feeling anxious
The client's blood pressure is decreased Explanation: Stimulation of beta receptors activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which increases blood pressure. Conversely, blocking beta receptors causes a decrease in blood pressure. Nausea and anxiety are not normally affected. Stimulation of beta receptors causes bronchodilation, which can relieve shortness of breath
A client has been prescribed a medication that antagonizes the beta receptors of the sympathetic nervous system. What assessment finding should the nurse attribute to the effects of this medication? The client's blood pressure is decreased The client denies shortness of breath The client denies feeling anxious The client's nausea is relieved
The client's blood pressure is decreased Explanation: Stimulation of beta receptors activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which increases blood pressure. Conversely, blocking beta receptors causes a decrease in blood pressure. Nausea and anxiety are not normally affected. Stimulation of beta receptors causes bronchodilation, which can relieve shortness of breath.
The nurse is assessing a client. What assessment finding is the clearest indicator of autonomic function? The client's muscle strength is equal bilaterally The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute The client can discern hot sensation from cold The client's hearing is intact
The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute Explanation: The autonomic nervous system functions to regulate respirations. Voluntary motor function, hearing and sensation are not primarily within the ANS.
The nurse is assessing a client. What assessment finding is the clearest indicator of autonomic function? · The client's hearing is intact · The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute · The client can discern hot sensation from cold · The client's muscle strength is equal bilaterally
The client's respiratory rate is 22 breaths per minute Explanation: The autonomic nervous system functions to regulate respirations. Voluntary motor function, hearing and sensation are not primarily within the ANS.
What statement best explains the central and peripheral nervous system? Structures of the central nervous system include the brain, neurons, and ganglia. The central nervous system (CNS) can be broken down into the somatic and autonomic pathways. The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. Structures of the peripheral nervous system include the hypothalamus, brain stem, and spinal column.
The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. Explanation: The nervous system has two main divisions: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes the neurons and ganglia around outside the CNS. The efferent portion of the PNS has two subdivisions: the somatic and autonomic nervous system.
What statement best explains the central and peripheral nervous system? · The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. · Structures of the peripheral nervous system include the hypothalamus, brain stem, and spinal column. · The central nervous system (CNS) can be broken down into the somatic and autonomic pathways. · Structures of the central nervous system include the brain, neurons, and ganglia.
The two main divisions that control the nervous system are the central and peripheral nervous system. Explanation: The nervous system has two main divisions: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes the neurons and ganglia around outside the CNS. The efferent portion of the PNS has two subdivisions: the somatic and autonomic nervous system.
A client's muscle weakness has been found to result from a lack of neurotransmitter communication between nerves and muscles. What neurotransmitter is most likely deficient? · acetylcholine · gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) · dopamine · serotonin
acetylcholine Explanation: Acetylcholine communicates between nerves and muscles. Dopamine is involved in the coordination of impulses and responses, both motor and intellectual. GABA inhibits nerve activity. Serotonin is important in arousal and sleep.
After the effector cell has been stimulated by acetylcholine (ACh), what enzyme stops this stimulation and allows the effector membrane to repolarize? acetylcholinesterase decarboxylase norepinephrine catecholamine
acetylcholinesterase Explanation: After the effector cell has been stimulated by ACh, stimulation of the receptor site must be terminated and destruction of any ACh must occur. The destruction of ACh is carried out by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme reacts with the ACh to form a chemically inactive compound. The breakdown of the released ACh is accomplished in 1/1,000 second, and the receptor is vacated, allowing the effector membrane to repolarize and be ready for the next stimulation. Dopa decarboxylase is an enzyme that converts dopa to dopamine. Norepinephrine is a catecholamine as are dopamine,
After the effector cell has been stimulated by acetylcholine (ACh), what enzyme stops this stimulation and allows the effector membrane to repolarize? · norepinephrine · decarboxylase · catecholamine · acetylcholinesterase
acetylcholinesterase Explanation: After the effector cell has been stimulated by ACh, stimulation of the receptor site must be terminated and destruction of any ACh must occur. The destruction of ACh is carried out by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme reacts with the ACh to form a chemically inactive compound. The breakdown of the released ACh is accomplished in 1/1,000 second, and the receptor is vacated, allowing the effector membrane to repolarize and be ready for the next stimulation. Dopa decarboxylase is an enzyme that converts dopa to dopamine. Norepinephrine is a catecholamine as are dopamine, serotonin, and epinephrine.
The functions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) can be broadly described as: · the ability to regulate and produce acetylcholine. · activities designed to maintain a constant internal environment, to respond to stress or emergencies, and to repair body tissues. · relaying motor impulses from the cortex to the thalamus. · the ability to produce an action potential and to convey electrical impulses.
activities designed to maintain a constant internal environment, to respond to stress or emergencies, and to repair body tissues. Explanation: The functions of the ANS can be broadly described as activities designed to maintain a constant internal environment (homeostasis), to respond to stress or emergencies, and to repair body tissues
A client's nerves have been stimulated and the signal has reached the axon. How will communication continue? · through the production of an electrical signal · by the release of a neurotransmitter · by physically stimulating the nerve on the other side of the synapse · The nerve signal will cease at this point.
by the release of a neurotransmitter Explanation: The transmission of information between two nerves or between a nerve and a gland or muscle is chemical , achieved by the release of a neurotransmitter. Communication is not electrical or physical, and communication does not necessarily cease at the axon
After teaching a group of students about the functions of the nervous system, the instructor determines that the teaching was effective when the students identify that a function is: · generation of incoming stimuli. · control of body functions. · prevention of stimulus exposure. · separation of responses.
control of body functions. Explanation: The nervous system is responsible for controlling body function, analyzing incoming stimuli, and integrating internal and external responses.
The nurse is caring for a client who is known to have deficient levels of dopamine because of a dietary tyrosine. The nurse should expect to assess for evidence of: · hyperfunction of the sympathetic nervous system. · increased adrenergic response. · decreased adrenergic response. · overstimulation of nicotinic receptors.
decreased adrenergic response. Explanation: Dopamine is a precursor to norepinephrine, which is one of the two major postganglionic neurotransmitters of the sympathetic nervous system. Consequently, low levels of dopamine could plausibly lead to a decreased adrenergic response. This would not affect the function of cholinergic neurons. Hypofunction, not hyperfunction, of the SNS would be likely
The nurse is caring for a client who is known to have deficient levels of dopamine because of a dietary lack of tyrosine. The nurse should expect to assess for evidence of: overstimulation of nicotinic receptors. decreased adrenergic response. increased adrenergic response. hyperfunction of the sympathetic nervous system.
decreased adrenergic response. Explanation: Dopamine is a precursor to norepinephrine, which is one of the two major postganglionic neurotransmitters of the sympathetic nervous system. Consequently, low levels of dopamine could plausibly lead to a decreased adrenergic response. This would not affect the function of cholinergic neurons. Hypofunction, not hyperfunction, of the SNS would be likely.
The nurse is caring for a client who is known to have deficient levels of dopamine because of a dietary lack of tyrosine. The nurse should expect to assess for evidence of: · decreased adrenergic response. · increased adrenergic response. · hyperfunction of the sympathetic nervous system. · overstimulation of nicotinic receptors.
decreased adrenergic response. Explanation: Dopamine is a precursor to norepinephrine, which is one of the two major postganglionic neurotransmitters of the sympathetic nervous system. Consequently, low levels of dopamine could plausibly lead to a decreased adrenergic response. This would not affect the function of cholinergic neurons. Hypofunction, not hyperfunction, of the SNS would be likely.
The nurse administers a drug that stimulates beta2 receptors. What type of health condition would this drug treat? respiratory disease diabetes heart disease high lipid levels
respiratory disease Explanation: Beta2-receptors are found in the smooth muscle in blood vessels, in the bronchi, in the periphery, and in uterine muscle. Beta2-receptors also cause dilation in the bronchi. Beta1-receptor stimulation would improve some heart disease and are responsible for increased lipolysis. Because beta2-receptors increase release of glucagon and the breakdown of glycogen, increasing serum glucose levels, stimulation of these receptors would exacerbate diabetes.
The nurse administers a drug that stimulates beta2 receptors. What type of health condition would this drug treat? · heart disease · respiratory disease · high lipid levels · diabetes
respiratory disease Explanation: Beta2-receptors are found in the smooth muscle in blood vessels, in the bronchi, in the periphery, and in uterine muscle. Beta2-receptors also cause dilation in the bronchi. Beta1-receptor stimulation would improve some heart disease and are responsible for increased lipolysis. Because beta2-receptors increase release of glucagon and the breakdown of glycogen, increasing serum glucose levels, stimulation of these receptors would exacerbate diabetes.
The nurse accompanies the healthcare provider into the client's room and remains after the client is told that they have cancer and a poor prognosis. The client's respirations become rapid and deep, their pupils dilate, and they appear diaphoretic. What type of response is the nurse witnessing? · muscarinic receptor stimulation response · parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) response · sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response · nicotinic receptor stimulation response
sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response Explanation: When stimulated, the SNS prepares the body to flee or to turn and fight. 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. PNS would lower heart rate and blood pressure and would constrict pupils. The client's response could not be wholly isolated to a muscarinic or nicotinic response.
Characteristics that allow neurons to communicate with other body cells include: · the ability to regulate body temperature. · relaying motor impulses from the cortex to the thalamus. · the ability to be stimulated and to convey electrical impulses. · stimulation of "association areas" to analyze information received.
the ability to be stimulated and to convey electrical impulses. Explanation: Neurons communicate at structures called synapses in a process called synaptic transmission. The synapse consists of the two neurons, one of which is sending information to the other. The sending neuron is known as the presynaptic neuron (ie, before the synapse), whereas the receiving neuron is known as the postsynaptic neuron (ie, after the synapse). Although the flow of information around the brain is achieved by electrical activity, communication between neurons is a chemical process.
Which statements are correct regarding the autonomic nervous system (ANS) receptors? Select all that apply. · Medications can either stimulate or inhibit the ANS. · The nurse does not need to know about the receptors in the ANS. · There are no drugs that affect the ANS or receptors. · ANS drugs affect only specific organs and not the whole body. · Drug effects depend on the branch of the ANS involved.
· Medications can either stimulate or inhibit the ANS. · Drug effects depend on the branch of the ANS involved. Explanation: Because ANS receptors are widespread throughout the body, drug that acts on the ANS usually affects the entire body rather than certain organs and tissues. Drugs effects depend on which branch of the ANS is involved and whether it is stimulated or inhibited by drug therapy. Knowledge of the physiology of the ANS is required by the nurse if drug therapy is administered.
