Nervous System Foundations
This body system functions as the communication network that maintains homeostasis.
What is the nervous system?
This part of the brain controls reasoning, speech, the senses, and voluntary movement.
What is the cerebrum?
This division of the PNS controls voluntary movement and sensory input.
What is the somatic nervous system?
This diagnostic test records the brain’s electrical activity using electrodes.
What is an electroencephalogram (EEG)?
Medical assistants recognize neurologic conditions but do not perform this action.
What is diagnosing?
The two major divisions of the nervous system are these.
What are the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
This brain region helps maintain homeostasis and regulates hormone release via the pituitary gland.
What is the hypothalamus?
This division of the ANS controls involuntary body functions like heart rate and digestion.
What is the autonomic nervous system?
This procedure involves inserting a needle into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid.
What is a lumbar puncture (spinal tap)?
A patient becomes confused and disoriented during an exam. The MA’s first responsibility is this.
What is ensuring patient safety? (or a variation)
This fundamental cell receives input and transmits electrical impulses in the nervous system.
What is a neuron?
This structure is responsible for balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movement.
What is the cerebellum?
This system activates the “fight-or-flight” response.
What is the sympathetic nervous system?
This therapy uses controlled electrical currents to treat severe psychiatric conditions when other treatments fail.
What is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?
This neurologic assessment tool evaluates orientation, memory, and cognition but does not provide a diagnosis.
What is a mental status exam (MSE)?
This neuron structure conducts impulses away from the cell body.
What is the axon?
This part of the brain controls vital involuntary functions.
What is the brainstem?
This ANS division restores the body to a relaxed state after stress.
What is the parasympathetic nervous system?
DAILY DOUBLE
This is used to treat the most varied class of nervous system disorders.
What is therapy?
A patient undergoing neurologic testing becomes anxious and refuses to continue. The MA’s most appropriate action is this.
What is stopping the procedure and notifying the provider? (or a variation)
This junction allows communication between neurons using neurotransmitters.
What is a synapse?
Damage to this lobe most directly affects vision and visual processing.
What is the occipital lobe?
Known as the “second brain,” this nervous system controls digestive function independently.
What is the enteric nervous system?
This surgical procedure involves removal of a portion of the skull to relieve pressure or access the brain.
What is a craniotomy or craniectomy?
This procedure is used to quickly ascertain if a patient has a concussion.
What is Pupils equal and reactive to light (PERL)?