Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

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Multiple Choice

After injection of epinephrine from an EpiPen, which physiological response would you expect in a patient experiencing an allergic reaction?

Constriction of the bronchioles and decreased heart rate

Increased digestive activity and pupil constriction

Dilation of the bronchioles and increased heart rate

Decreased blood pressure and increased salivation

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of epinephrine: Epinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter that activates the sympathetic nervous system, also known as the 'fight or flight' response. It is commonly used in emergencies to counteract severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Analyze the physiological effects of epinephrine: Epinephrine binds to adrenergic receptors (alpha and beta receptors) in various tissues. Beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs cause bronchodilation, which helps open airways. Beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart increase heart rate and contractility, improving blood circulation.

Eliminate incorrect options: Constriction of the bronchioles and decreased heart rate are opposite to the effects of epinephrine. Increased digestive activity and pupil constriction are associated with parasympathetic activation, not sympathetic activation. Decreased blood pressure and increased salivation are also inconsistent with epinephrine's effects.

Focus on the correct physiological response: Epinephrine causes dilation of the bronchioles (to improve breathing) and increased heart rate (to enhance blood flow), which are critical during an allergic reaction to counteract symptoms like airway constriction and low blood pressure.

Relate the response to the clinical use of an EpiPen: The EpiPen delivers epinephrine to rapidly reverse life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing and circulatory collapse, by promoting bronchodilation and increasing heart rate and blood pressure.