OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

What is the impact of the parasympathetic nervous system according to the provided text?

1. a. is under voluntary control

2. b. is part of the somatic nervous system

3. c. decreases the metabolic rate

4. d. increases the metabolic rate

The correct answer is: c. decreases the metabolic rate

The impact of the parasympathetic nervous system primarily involves a decrease in metabolic rate, which corresponds to the correct choice. This system is often described as promoting a "rest and digest" state in the body, contrasting with the sympathetic nervous system, which is associated with "fight or flight" responses that typically increase metabolic activity. When the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, functions such as heart rate reduction, increased digestion, and redirected blood flow toward the gastrointestinal tract enhance bodily maintenance and energy conservation. These processes contribute to a lower overall metabolic rate, as the body shifts its focus from preparing for immediate physical responses to promoting efficiency in restorative processes. The other options relate to aspects that do not accurately describe the nature of the parasympathetic nervous system. The idea of voluntary control relates more to the somatic nervous system, which governs voluntary muscle movements. The parasympathetic system operates largely automatically and involuntarily. Similarly, stating it is part of the somatic nervous system misrepresents its function, as the parasympathetic nervous system is a component of the autonomic nervous system, which also includes the sympathetic nervous system but is distinct in its operations. The choice indicating an increase in metabolic rate also contradicts the