Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following actions does epinephrine mimic?

1. Parasympathetic nervous system

2. Sympathetic nervous system

3. Central nervous system

4. Endocrine system

The correct answer is: Sympathetic nervous system

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is a key hormone and neurotransmitter that primarily mimics the actions of the sympathetic nervous system. When released during stress or emergency situations, such as in the "fight or flight" response, epinephrine activates various physiological responses that prepare the body to react quickly. This includes increasing heart rate, dilating airways, enhancing blood flow to vital organs, and promoting the conversion of glycogen to glucose for energy. These effects are critical for handling stressful situations and are characteristic of the sympathetic nervous system's role in mobilizing the body's resources during perceived threats. The actions of the parasympathetic nervous system, in contrast, are more related to rest and digest functions, which epinephrine does not support. Similarly, while the central nervous system and endocrine system have important roles, they do not specifically replicate the immediate and intense responses associated with sympathetic activation that epinephrine triggers. Thus, the choice indicating that epinephrine mimics the actions of the sympathetic nervous system is the correct one, as it directly relates to the body's rapid response mechanisms in critical situations.