Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test 2026 - Free CEN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Glycogenolysis is the biochemical process through which glycogen is broken down into glucose, providing energy for the body, particularly during times of stress or increased energy demand. The sympathetic nervous system is the division of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for "fight or flight" responses. When activated, it releases catecholamines such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which stimulate glycogenolysis in the liver and muscle cells. This increase in available glucose helps to meet the body's immediate energy needs during stress responses, physical activity, or when blood sugar levels are low.

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system is primarily responsible for rest-and-digest activities and typically promotes energy storage rather than mobilization. The central nervous system, while it plays a role in processing and integrating information, does not directly stimulate glycogenolysis. The enteric nervous system mainly governs the functions of the gastrointestinal tract and does not have a direct impact on the regulation of glycogenolysis. Thus, the sympathetic nervous system is the correct choice as it directly facilitates the conversion of glycogen to glucose in response to physiological demands.