Severing the Phrenic Nerve

Question

Severing the phrenic nerve
A) stops ventilation.
B) impairs exhalation but has no effect on inhalation.
C) causes hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis.
D) does all of the above.

Accepted Answer

The phrenic nerve is responsible for innervating the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle for breathing. Severing the phrenic nerve would therefore stop ventilation altogether.