Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary action of alpha 1 receptors in the body?

1. Increase heart rate

2. Vasoconstrict and shunt blood

3. Reduce blood pressure

4. Increase respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Vasoconstrict and shunt blood

The primary action of alpha-1 receptors in the body is indeed vasoconstriction and the shunting of blood. Alpha-1 adrenergic receptors are primarily located on the smooth muscles of blood vessels. When stimulated by catecholamines like norepinephrine, they cause the muscles to contract, leading to vasoconstriction. This action increases peripheral resistance and raises blood pressure, which is vital during the body's fight-or-flight response. Vasoconstriction redirects blood flow away from non-essential organs towards vital organs such as the heart and brain, enhancing the effect of increased blood pressure and maintaining perfusion during stressful situations. This mechanism is essential in various physiological processes, particularly in response to stress, injury, or significant blood loss, where it helps maintain blood pressure and ensure adequate blood flow to critical areas. In contrast, the other options describe functions associated with different pathways or receptor types. For example, an increase in heart rate is primarily mediated by beta-1 adrenergic receptors, while reducing blood pressure is more closely associated with stimulation of beta-2 receptors or actions of medications that cause vasodilation. An increase in respiratory rate is generally linked to beta-2 receptor activation within the respiratory system, which contributes to bronchodilation but