Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP) Practice Test 2026 - Free CCRP Practice Questions and Study Guide

The sympathetic nervous system is a crucial component of the autonomic nervous system that is primarily responsible for the 'fight or flight' response. When it comes to blood pressure control, the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role by increasing heart rate and the force of heart contractions. This activation leads to a rise in cardiac output, which is the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute.

Additionally, the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the release of norepinephrine, which causes vasoconstriction in blood vessels, leading to increased vascular resistance. Both the increase in cardiac output and the constriction of blood vessels contribute to higher blood pressure. Essentially, through these mechanisms, the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body to respond effectively to stressors, including physical activity or emergency situations, thereby playing a critical role in regulating blood pressure during such times.

In contrast to this, other options suggest actions that would either decrease heart rate, maintain it at a constant level, or focus on sodium regulation, none of which accurately represent the primary effects of the sympathetic nervous system on blood pressure.