Gastrointestinal Diseases NCLEX Review Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal Diseases NCLEX Review Questions related questions and content

Which phase of deglutition involves contraction of the longitudinal muscle layer of the muscularis?

  • A. voluntary phase
  • B. buccal phase
  • C. pharyngeal phase
  • D. esophageal phase
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: esophageal phase. During the esophageal phase of deglutition, the longitudinal muscle layer of the muscularis contracts to help propel the bolus of food downwards towards the stomach. This contraction occurs in a coordinated manner to create peristaltic waves that push the food along the esophagus. In contrast, the voluntary phase (A) involves the conscious initiation of swallowing, the buccal phase (B) involves the tongue pushing the bolus towards the pharynx, and the pharyngeal phase (C) involves the initiation of the swallowing reflex and closure of the airway to prevent aspiration.