OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

Neurons that carry impulses from receptors to the CNS are called:

1. Sensory

2. Mixed

3. Motor

4. Efferent

The correct answer is: Sensory

Neurons that carry impulses from receptors to the central nervous system (CNS) are classified as sensory neurons. These specialized neurons are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body's periphery, which includes various types of receptors that detect stimuli such as touch, temperature, pain, and changes in the internal and external environment. The primary role of sensory neurons is to relay this information to the CNS, where it can be processed and interpreted. The term "sensory" specifically denotes the function of these neurons in the sensory pathway, emphasizing their role in gathering input from sensory receptors. This is contrasted with motor neurons, which carry impulses away from the CNS to effectors like muscles and glands. Mixed nerves can contain both sensory and motor fibers, but they are not classified based solely on the function of carrying impulses to the CNS. Lastly, the term "efferent" refers to neurons that transmit signals away from the CNS, which does not apply to the function of these specific neurons. Therefore, the designation of sensory accurately captures the role of these neurons in the nervous system.