OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

The correct description of the location of a layer of the meninges is:

1. a. Middle-dura matter

2. b. Inner - pia matter

3. c. Outer- arachnoid membrane

4. d. Middle - pia matter

The correct answer is: b. Inner - pia matter

The inner layer of the meninges is accurately referred to as the pia mater. This layer is directly adhered to the surface of the brain and spinal cord, providing a protective barrier and containing blood vessels that supply nourishment to the central nervous system. It plays a critical role in the overall protective and supportive structure of the meninges. In contrast, the other descriptions do not accurately represent the layers of the meninges. Dura mater is the outermost layer, while the arachnoid membrane sits between the pia mater and the dura mater, making the characterization of those layers essential for understanding the anatomy of the meninges. The terms "middle" and "outer" in the other options correspond to different layers than the inner pia mater that is accurately described by the correct answer. This highlights the importance of correctly identifying each layer’s position in relation to one another.