A 20 year old experiences a severe closed head injury as a result of a motor vehicle accident.Which of the following structures is most likely keeping the patient in a vegetative state (VS) 1 month after the accident?
A) Cerebral cortex
B) Brainstem
C) Spinal cord
D) Cerebellum

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The brainstem is responsible for basic life functions such as breathing, heart rate, and wakefulness. In a vegetative state, the brainstem is often intact, allowing these functions to continue, while the cerebral cortex, responsible for consciousness and higher brain functions, is impaired.

A 20 Year Old Experiences a Severe Closed Head Injury