Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the primary role of the median nerve?

1. Control sensation in the leg

2. Supply movement to the wrist and fingers

3. Control facial expressions

4. Regulate heart functions

The correct answer is: Supply movement to the wrist and fingers

The primary role of the median nerve is to supply movement to the wrist and fingers. This nerve is one of the key nerves of the upper limb and is primarily responsible for motor functions, specifically in the forearm and hand. It innervates several muscles that allow for the flexion of the wrist and fingers, making it crucial for hand movements. The structural pathway of the median nerve runs through the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway in the wrist, and its primary branches control movements such as pinching and gripping. Additionally, the median nerve also carries sensory information from parts of the hand, further emphasizing its importance in hand functionality. In contrast, other options relate to different nerves or systems entirely. Control of sensation in the leg would involve nerves like the sciatic nerve, facial expressions would be managed by the facial nerve, and heart functions are regulated by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the vagus nerve. Thus, option B accurately identifies the main function of the median nerve within the context of the nervous system.