NCLEX Questions for Neurological System Related

Review NCLEX Questions for Neurological System related questions and content

The action potential pattern that appears on the oscilloscope screen is caused by rapid ________.

  • A. polarity changes
  • B. pH changes
  • C. breakdown of the membrane structure
  • D. all of the above
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The action potential pattern observed on an oscilloscope is caused by rapid changes in membrane polarity. During an action potential, the membrane potential depolarizes (becomes more positive) as sodium ions rush into the neuron, followed by repolarization (returning to negative) as potassium ions exit. These polarity changes are essential for the propagation of nerve impulses and are a hallmark of neural activity.