How many bones form the Axial skeleton?

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Explanation

The axial skeleton forms the central axis of the body and is composed of 80 bones.
It includes the skull (22), associated bones of the head (7), the vertebral column (26), and the thoracic cage (25).
Its primary function is to provide support and protect the vital organs, including the brain, spinal cord, heart, and lungs.

Option A: This represents the number of bones in the appendicular skeleton, which includes the bones of the limbs and girdles.
Option B: This is the total number of bones in the entire adult human skeleton, combining both the axial and appendicular divisions.
Option D: This is an incorrect count and does not correspond to any major division of the human skeleton.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Composition of the Axial Skeleton as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A foundational knowledge of the axial skeleton is crucial for nurses when assessing patients for trauma, particularly injuries to the head, neck, spine, and chest.
Conditions like osteoporosis disproportionately affect the axial skeleton, especially the vertebrae, leading to a high risk of compression fractures. Nurses play a key role in patient education on prevention and safety.
What if? If a patient presents with a suspected cervical spine injury after an accident, a nurse's understanding of the axial skeleton's anatomy (specifically the 7 cervical vertebrae) guides the immediate priority of spinal immobilization to prevent catastrophic damage to the spinal cord.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Axial skeleton'.
This is a factual recall question from anatomy. Access your knowledge about the major divisions of the human skeleton.
Recall that the total skeleton (206 bones) is divided into two main parts: axial and appendicular.
Differentiate between the two divisions. The axial skeleton is the central core (skull, spine, ribs), while the appendicular skeleton comprises the limbs.
Recall the specific number of bones for each division: the axial skeleton has 80 bones, and the appendicular skeleton has 126 bones.
Compare this number with the given options and select the one that matches.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 252-254

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 13-15

E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e p. 27-29

Practise the full NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.