Gastrointestinal NCLEX Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal NCLEX Questions related questions and content

Stimulation by the parasympathetic nervous system will cause the ______ anal sphincter to ______.

  • A. external; relax
  • B. external; contract
  • C. internal; contract
  • D. internal; relax
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for promoting rest and digest functions. The internal anal sphincter is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the parasympathetic division. When stimulated by the parasympathetic nervous system, the internal anal sphincter will relax, allowing for defecation to occur.

A: The external anal sphincter is under voluntary control, not affected by the parasympathetic nervous system.
B: The external anal sphincter contracts voluntarily, not influenced by the parasympathetic nervous system.
C: The internal anal sphincter contracts under sympathetic stimulation, not parasympathetic.