NCLEX Question for Prostaglandins

NCLEX Review Question
Prostaglandins are chemical substances thought to

a.increase sensitivity of pain receptors.
b.reduce the perception of pain.
c.inhibit the transmission of pain.
d.inhibit the transmission of noxious stimuli.

Correct Answer: A
increase sensitivity of pain receptors.
Rationale: Prostaglandins are believed to increase sensitivity to pain receptors by enhancing the pain-provoking effect of bradykinin.

reduce the perception of pain.
Rationale: Endorphins and enkephalins reduce or inhibit transmission or perception of pain.

inhibit the transmission of pain.
Rationale: Endorphins and enkephalins reduce or inhibit transmission or perception of pain.

inhibit the transmission of noxious stimuli.
Rationale: Morphine and other opioid medications inhibit the transmission of noxious stimuli by mimicking enkephalin and endorphin.

Posted in: MSN NCLEX