ATI RN
Autonomic Nervous System NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of these structures is not under direct control of the peripheral nervous system?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The peripheral nervous system (PNS) controls peripheral structures. The trigeminal ganglion (A) is a sensory relay, not directly controlled by PNS motor output. Gastric plexus (B), sympathetic chain (C), and cervical plexus (D) are PNS autonomic/somatic effectors. A is the least directly controlled.
Question 2 of 5
What is the target of an upper motor neuron?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Upper motor neurons (UMNs) in the CNS target lower motor neurons (LMNs) in the spinal cord or brainstem, which then innervate skeletal muscles. UMNs don’t directly target muscles or other brain regions like the cortex or thalamus.
Question 3 of 5
How much of a change in the membrane potential is necessary for the summation of postsynaptic potentials to result in an action potential being generated?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: From a resting potential of -70 mV, the membrane must depolarize to the threshold (around -55 mV), a change of about +15 mV, to trigger an action potential via summation.
Question 4 of 5
The brain stem does NOT include the:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The brainstem includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata. The diencephalon (thalamus, hypothalamus) is part of the forebrain, not the brainstem.
Question 5 of 5
Which structure is encircled by the circle of Willis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The circle of Willis, an arterial ring at the brain’s base, encircles the pituitary stalk (infundibulum), providing blood to the brain. The cavernous sinus, pineal gland, and aqueduct are not within its structure.