HESI A2
Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test
1. Which of the following is known as the production of red blood cells?
- A. Thrombopoiesis
- B. Erythropoiesis
- C. Hematopoiesis
- D. Phagocytosis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Erythropoiesis specifically refers to the process of producing red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bone marrow. Hematopoiesis is the broader term that encompasses the production of all types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Phagocytosis is the process by which cells engulf and digest particles, while thrombopoiesis is the production of platelets. Therefore, the correct answer is B as it directly relates to the production of red blood cells.
2. The motor cortex helps the brain by monitoring and controlling the body's movement. Where is the motor cortex located within the brain?
- A. Back of the head
- B. Top middle portion of the parietal lobe
- C. Front portion of the parietal lobe
- D. Around the auditory cortex
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Front portion of the parietal lobe. The motor cortex is located in the frontal lobe, specifically in the front portion of the parietal lobe. It is responsible for planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the motor cortex is not located at the back of the head, top middle portion of the parietal lobe, or around the auditory cortex.
3. What is the role of the spleen in the immune system?
- A. To filter blood and remove old red blood cells
- B. To produce white blood cells
- C. To store lymphocytes
- D. To produce antibodies
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system by filtering blood, specifically removing old or damaged red blood cells. It also stores lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help fight infections. While the spleen does not produce white blood cells or antibodies, its main functions lie in blood filtration and storage of immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B is incorrect because the spleen does not produce white blood cells. Choice C is incorrect as the spleen stores lymphocytes but does not primarily function to do so. Choice D is incorrect because the spleen does not produce antibodies.
4. Which hormone is released by the adrenal glands during stress?
- A. Insulin
- B. Adrenaline
- C. Melatonin
- D. Cortisol
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released by the adrenal glands during stress to prepare the body for rapid action. It helps in triggering the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, and providing a burst of energy when faced with stressful situations. Insulin (Choice A) is produced by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels, not by the adrenal glands. Melatonin (Choice C) is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is produced by the pineal gland, not the adrenal glands. Cortisol (Choice D) is another hormone produced by the adrenal glands, but it is not the primary hormone released during immediate stress responses; it is more involved in long-term stress regulation.
5. What is the primary function of platelets?
- A. To fight infections
- B. To clot blood
- C. To carry oxygen
- D. To transport nutrients
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of platelets, or thrombocytes, is to clot blood. Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis by forming clots to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. They are not directly involved in fighting infections, carrying oxygen, or transporting nutrients. Therefore, the correct answer is B.
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