RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2021
Applied Physiology
Easy

Functions of C.S.F is?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2021

Explanation

  • The most critical function of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) is to provide mechanical protection to the brain and spinal cord.
  • It acts as a fluid cushion or shock absorber, protecting the delicate neural tissue from injury caused by sudden movements or impact.
  • CSF also provides buoyancy, which reduces the effective weight of the brain from about 1,400 grams to approximately 50 grams, preventing the base of the brain from being compressed by its own weight.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option B: This statement is too broad and largely incorrect. The primary regulator of nutrients for the entire body is the blood. While CSF does transport some nutrients, its role is confined to the central nervous system and is secondary to its protective function.
  • Option C: This describes the process of CSF absorption, not its primary function. Drainage into the dural venous sinuses via arachnoid villi is the final step in the CSF lifecycle, allowing for its removal after it has circulated and performed its functions.
  • Option D: This is factually incorrect. CSF is produced in the choroid plexuses of the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles. It circulates from the lateral ventricles, through the third ventricle, into the fourth ventricle, and then exits to the subarachnoid space to surround the entire brain and spinal cord.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Functions of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Analysis of CSF obtained via a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is a crucial diagnostic tool for conditions like meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and multiple sclerosis.
  • Disruption in CSF circulation or absorption can lead to hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of CSF within the ventricles, causing increased intracranial pressure (ICP).
  • What if? If a patient presents with a severe headache, fever, and nuchal rigidity (stiff neck), a nurse should anticipate orders for a lumbar puncture to analyze the CSF for signs of meningitis (e.g., increased white blood cells, low glucose, high protein).
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the core concept of the question, which is the 'function' of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
  • Evaluate each option based on established physiological knowledge of the nervous system.
  • Option A describes the well-known protective, cushioning role of CSF. This is a primary function.
  • Option B makes a broad claim about nutrient regulation for the 'body,' which is incorrect. Blood, not CSF, serves this role systemically.
  • Option C describes the drainage/absorption pathway, which is a process, not a primary function.
  • Option D presents a factually incorrect statement about CSF circulation. It flows through all ventricles and the subarachnoid space.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Functions of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
  • Stem keywords: Functions, C.S.F, Cerebrospinal Fluid
  • Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
  • Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QtfEOdhbpDNOV_b5aRA5IG

Reference Book

E6 Robert Boland, Marcia L. Verduin - Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Text of Psychiatry-Wolters Kluwer Health (2024) (pp 1-16525 of 16525) p. 209-211

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1383-1385

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Functions of C.S.F is? - RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2021 | NPrep