select the correct answer.\na physician examines a patient who complains of breathing problems. she finds…

select the correct answer.\na physician examines a patient who complains of breathing problems. she finds fluctuations in the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate. the physician thinks it’s because of a brain injury. which part of the brain is affected?\na. cerebellum\nb. cerebrum\nc. medulla oblongata\nd. midbrain\ne. pons

select the correct answer.\na physician examines a patient who complains of breathing problems. she finds fluctuations in the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate. the physician thinks it’s because of a brain injury. which part of the brain is affected?\na. cerebellum\nb. cerebrum\nc. medulla oblongata\nd. midbrain\ne. pons

Answer

Brief Explanations:

To solve this, we analyze the functions of each brain part:

  • Option A (cerebellum): Mainly for coordination and balance, not blood pressure/heart rate regulation. Eliminate.
  • Option B (cerebrum): Involved in higher - order functions like thinking, not vital autonomic functions. Eliminate.
  • Option C (medulla oblongata): Regulates vital autonomic functions such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. This matches the patient's symptoms (breathing problems, blood pressure/heart rate fluctuations).
  • Option D (midbrain): Involved in sensory/motor relay, not these vital autonomic functions. Eliminate.
  • Option E (pons): Helps in relaying signals and some respiratory control, but not the primary regulator of blood pressure and heart rate like the medulla. Eliminate.

Answer:

C. medulla oblongata