DA

Study Notes for Autonomic Nervous System and Sacral Plexus

  • Recitation Information

    • Last recitation: Next Tuesday
    • Purpose: This recitation will serve as the quiz.
    • Quiz structure:
    • 20 points available.
    • Students have one week to memorize 16 specific words.
    • Only 10 of the 16 words will be selected for the quiz.

  • Sacral Plexus

    • Important for its connection to the lower part of the body.
    • Three key levels discussed: S2, S3, S4, which can be remembered with the phrase "keeps the feces off the floor". This indicates the sacral plexus's role in controlling bowel functions and related muscles.

  • Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

    • Definition: Section of the motor subdivision that controls involuntary movements.
    • Regulates functions of cardiac and smooth muscles, as well as glands.
    • Two Main Divisions of the ANS:
    • Sympathetic
      • Function often summarized by the phrase "fight or flight".
      • Activates response in stressful situations (e.g., sudden noise or threat).
    • Parasympathetic
      • Responsible for rest and digestion.
    • Cranial Nerves that are Parasympathetic:
    • CN III (Oculomotor), CN VII (Facial), CN IX (Glossopharyngeal), CN X (Vagus).
    • Important numbers to memorize: 3, 7, 9, 10.

  • Physiological Responses

    • Physiological changes during a sympathetic response include increases in:
    • Heart rate (can jump over 200), blood pressure, and alertness.
    • Emergency Situations:
    • Example of an EpiPen usage: Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical attention, including calling 911 if someone is affected.
    • Response includes increased heart rate and potentially dangerous physiological consequences.