Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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What are the small muscles within the dermis that pull the hair erect called?

Sebaceous glands
Erector pili
Adipose tissues
Hair follicles

The correct answer is: Erector pili

The small muscles within the dermis that pull the hair erect are known as the erector pili muscles. These muscles are smooth muscle fibers that contract in response to stimuli such as cold or fear, resulting in the hair standing up, commonly referred to as "goosebumps." This physiological reaction is believed to be a response rooted in evolutionary biology, as it may have helped our ancestors appear larger to predators or conserve heat by trapping a layer of air beneath the raised hair. In contrast, sebaceous glands are associated with the production of oil to lubricate the skin and hair but do not have a role in hair movement. Adipose tissues refer to fat storage areas in the body and are involved in energy regulation and insulation. Hair follicles are the structures in the skin from which hair grows but do not have muscular action associated with them. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the anatomy and physiology of skin and hair.