Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

The parasympathetic nervous system is primarily responsible for promoting a state of rest and relaxation within the body. Its main functions include slowing the heart rate and reducing the speed of intestinal activity, which allows the body to conserve energy and enhance digestive processes. When activated, the parasympathetic system counteracts the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response and typically speeds up heart rate and increases respiratory rate. The activation of the parasympathetic system helps to bring the body back to a state of calm and stimulates activities that promote digestion and nutrient absorption. This understanding underscores why the correct answer reflects the role of the parasympathetic system in managing heart and digestive activities.