A gastroenterologist is teaching a group of medical students about the enteric nervous system in preparation for a consult on client who has suffered a spinal cord injury. Which of the physician's teaching points is most accurate?
A) "The myenteric plexus is responsible for controlling the function of each segment of the intestinal tract."
B) "The enteric nervous system is made up of the myenteric and submucosal plexuses; these are located in the wall of the GI tract."
C) "Sympathetic innervation of much of the GI tract occurs by way of the vagus nerve."
D) "Parasympathetic stimulation blocks the release of the excitatory neuromediators and inhibits GI motility."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The enteric nervous system consists of the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, which are located within the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. The myenteric plexus is responsible for controlling overall function along the entire length of the gut, while the vagus nerve provides parasympathetic, not sympathetic, innervation. Sympathetic simulation lessens excitatory neuromediators and inhibits GI motility.

A Gastroenterologist Is Teaching a Group of Medical Students About