Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which regulatory system is responsible for peristalsis?

1. Central nervous system

2. Peripheral nervous system

3. Somatic nervous system

4. Autonomic nervous system

The correct answer is: Autonomic nervous system

Peristalsis, which is the coordinated, wave-like contraction of smooth muscle that propels food through the digestive tract, is primarily regulated by the autonomic nervous system. This system operates without conscious control and is responsible for involuntary bodily functions, including the movements of the digestive organs. The autonomic nervous system has two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The parasympathetic division specifically enhances digestive activity and encourages peristalsis, facilitating a smooth and controlled passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract. In contrast, the central nervous system processes sensory information and coordinates voluntary movements but is not directly responsible for the involuntary muscular contractions of peristalsis. The peripheral nervous system serves as a communication network between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, playing a role in both voluntary and involuntary actions but still acts in conjunction with the autonomic nervous system for digestive functions. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles, which does not involve the smooth muscle contractions of peristalsis either. Thus, the autonomic nervous system is the key player in regulating this essential digestive process.