Nursing Elites

1. A pediatrician notes that an infant's cartilage is disappearing and being replaced by bone. What process has the doctor observed?

• A. Mineralization
• B. Ossification
• C. Osteoporosis
• D. Calcification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The doctor has observed the process of ossification. Ossification is the natural process where cartilage in the body is replaced by bone. This process takes place during fetal development, growth, and bone fracture healing. Ossification involves the formation of bone tissue by depositing minerals like calcium and phosphorus within the cartilage matrix, leading to the development of a bone structure. Choice A, mineralization, refers to the process of forming mineral deposits in tissues, but it does not involve the replacement of cartilage by bone. Choice C, osteoporosis, is a condition characterized by bone density loss and increased fragility, not the natural process of cartilage replacement by bone. Choice D, calcification, is the process of deposition of calcium salts in various tissues, but it does not specifically involve the replacement of cartilage by bone as in ossification.

2. Which division of the nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, preparing the body to respond to stressful situations?

• A. Somatic nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Peripheral nervous system
• D. Central nervous system

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The autonomic nervous system is correctly identified as the division responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which readies the body to react to stressful situations. This system regulates involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, pupil dilation, and adrenaline release during stress. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements and skeletal muscle activity, not the automatic responses seen in the 'fight or flight' reaction. The peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to the body's organs and limbs, facilitating communication, while the central nervous system, comprising the brain and spinal cord, serves as the primary control center of the body, integrating and processing information.

3. What do lacteals absorb in the small intestine?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Lipids
• C. Proteins
• D. Nonpolar nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lacteals are lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine that specialize in absorbing dietary lipids. These lipids are then transported into the lymphatic system for further processing and distribution throughout the body. Choice A (Carbohydrates) is incorrect because carbohydrates are primarily digested and absorbed in the small intestine by enzymes and transported to the liver. Choice C (Proteins) is incorrect because proteins are broken down into amino acids and absorbed in the small intestine, mainly by the villi. Choice D (Nonpolar nutrients) is incorrect as it is a vague term and not specific to what lacteals absorb, which are primarily lipids.

4. Where does gas exchange take place in the respiratory system?

• A. Alveoli
• B. Bronchioles
• C. Bronchi
• D. Trachea

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Gas exchange in the respiratory system occurs in the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs. Within the alveoli, oxygen from the inhaled air diffuses into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide from the blood enters the alveoli to be exhaled. This exchange of gases is essential for the body to obtain oxygen and remove carbon dioxide, supporting vital bodily functions. The bronchioles (choice B), bronchi (choice C), and trachea (choice D) are part of the airway passage system that transports air to and from the alveoli but do not participate in gas exchange. Therefore, the alveoli play a crucial role in the respiratory system by facilitating gas exchange.

5. Certain medications can suppress the immune system to treat autoimmune diseases or prevent organ rejection after transplants. What is a potential risk associated with immunosuppressive drugs?

• A. Increased risk of developing allergies
• B. Increased susceptibility to infections
• C. Both A and B
• D. Neither A nor B

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Immunosuppressive drugs work by suppressing the immune system's activity, which can increase the risk of infections as the body's ability to fight off pathogens is compromised. While allergies can be a side effect of some medications, the primary concern with immunosuppressive drugs is the increased susceptibility to infections. Therefore, the correct answer is B, increased susceptibility to infections. Choice A, 'Increased risk of developing allergies,' is incorrect as the primary risk associated with immunosuppressive drugs is not related to allergies. Choice C, 'Both A and B,' is incorrect as the main concern is the increased susceptibility to infections rather than developing allergies. Choice D, 'Neither A nor B,' is incorrect as there is a known risk of increased susceptibility to infections when using immunosuppressive drugs.

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