Sensory and Neurological System Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing the sensory and neurological systems, focusing on anatomy, physiology, assessment, and diagnostic testing.

Central nervous system (CNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of cranial nerves III to XII and spinal nerves.

Neurons

Primary functional unit of the nervous system characterized by excitability, conductivity, and influence.

Glial cells

Provide support, nourishment, and protection to neurons.

Synapse

The structural and functional junction between two neurons where the nerve impulse is transmitted.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that affect the transmission of impulses across the synapse; can be excitatory or inhibitory.

Gray matter

Brain tissue comprised of the cerebrum (right and left cerebral hemispheres).

White matter

Brain tissue comprised of the brainstem, ascending tracts, cerebellum, descending tracts, and reflex arc.

Spinal nerves

Consist of dorsal (afferent) and ventral (efferent) pairs that are sensory and motor nerve fibers/roots, respectively.

Autonomic nervous system (ANS)

Includes the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (conserves/restores energy) systems.

Blood-brain barrier

Physiological barrier protecting brain from harmful agents while allowing nutrients to enter.

Mental status assessment

Includes assessing alertness/orientation (person, place, time, and situation), thought process, mood, and affect.

Pronator drift

Sensitive indicator of potential vasospasm or increasing edema in one hemisphere of the cerebrum.

Extinction (sensory function)

Assessed by simultaneously touching both sides of the body symmetrically; abnormal response when stimulus is perceived only on one side.

Romberg test

Assesses cerebellar function related to balance.

Lumbar puncture (LP)

A diagnostic test involving cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Electroencephalography (EEG)

Electrographic study.

Electromyography (EMG)

Electrographic study.