American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

The cutaneous membrane, commonly known as the skin, primarily consists of stratified squamous epithelium attached to connective tissue. The outer layer, which is the epidermis, is formed by this stratified squamous epithelium, providing a protective barrier against environmental hazards such as pathogens, UV radiation, and physical trauma. The presence of multiple layers in the epithelial tissue helps in ensuring that the skin can withstand abrasion and other forms of stress.

Beneath this epithelial layer lies the dermis, a connective tissue that provides structural support, elasticity, and strength to the skin. It is rich in collagen and elastin fibers, facilitating the functionality and resilience of the cutaneous membrane.

Other options do not accurately represent the composition of the cutaneous membrane. For example, simple cuboidal epithelium is typically found in glands and tubules, while smooth muscle and nerve endings, although present in the skin, do not make up the primary structure of the cutaneous membrane. Adipose tissue and blood vessels play supporting roles in the skin but are not part of the primary structure of the cutaneous membrane itself. Thus, stratified squamous epithelium attached to connective tissue is the correct characterization.