Health Assessment Neurological System NCLEX Questions Quizlet Related

Review Health Assessment Neurological System NCLEX Questions Quizlet related questions and content

The resting membrane potential of a cell

  • A. is dependent on the permeability of the cell membrane to K+ being greater than the permeability to Na+
  • B. falls to zero immediately when Na+, K+ ATPase in the membrane is inhibited
  • C. is usually equal to the equilibrium potential for K+
  • D. is usually equal to the equilibrium potential for Na+
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The resting membrane potential is primarily determined by the permeability of the cell membrane to potassium ions (K+), which is greater than its permeability to sodium ions (Na+). This is because the membrane has more leak channels for K+ than for Na+, allowing K+ to diffuse out of the cell, creating a negative intracellular environment. The Na+, K+ ATPase pump maintains this gradient but does not directly set the resting potential. Inhibition of the pump would eventually disrupt the gradient, but the potential does not immediately fall to zero.