Nursing Elites

1. Electroencephalography (EEG) measures electrical activity in the brain, primarily reflecting the activity of:

• A. Neurons
• B. Astrocytes
• C. Oligodendrocytes
• D. Microglia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: EEG measures electrical activity in the brain, primarily reflecting the activity of neurons. Neurons are the primary cells responsible for generating electrical impulses and transmitting information in the brain. Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia are other types of cells in the brain that have different functions and are not primarily involved in generating the electrical activity measured by EEG. Astrocytes support neuronal function, oligodendrocytes produce myelin to insulate axons, and microglia are involved in immune responses and maintaining brain health, but they do not generate the electrical impulses detected by EEG.

2. Which of the following accurately describes saltatory conduction?

• A. It is faster than normal nerve conduction
• B. It occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next
• C. It only occurs in myelinated neurons
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Saltatory conduction is faster than normal nerve conduction, occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next, and is exclusive to myelinated neurons. This form of conduction allows for the rapid transmission of nerve impulses by the action potential jumping between the nodes of Ranvier in myelinated neurons, enhancing the efficiency of signal propagation along the axon. Choice A is correct as saltatory conduction is indeed faster than normal conduction. Choice B is accurate as it describes the mechanism of conduction 'jumping' from one node of Ranvier to the next. Choice C is correct because saltatory conduction occurs specifically in myelinated neurons where the myelin sheath insulates the axon except at the nodes of Ranvier, facilitating faster transmission of nerve impulses.

3. Which of the following terms describes stem cells that have the ability to develop into any cell found in the human body?

• A. Totipotent stem cells
• B. Multipotent stem cells
• C. Pluripotent stem cells
• D. Hematopoietic stem cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Totipotent stem cells have the unique ability to differentiate into any cell type in the human body and can generate a complete organism. They are considered the most versatile type of stem cells, capable of developing into all cell types, including extraembryonic tissues. Choice A, Totipotent stem cells, is the correct answer as it specifically describes stem cells with the broadest differentiation potential. Choice B, Multipotent stem cells, refers to stem cells that can differentiate into a limited range of cell types. Choice C, Pluripotent stem cells, can give rise to almost all cell types, but not the complete organism like totipotent stem cells. Choice D, Hematopoietic stem cells, are a type of multipotent stem cells that give rise to various blood cell types, but do not have the same broad differentiation potential as totipotent stem cells.

4. Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Cortisol
• D. Thyroxine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glucagon is the correct answer. Produced by the pancreas, glucagon acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels. Glucagon promotes the breakdown of glycogen into glucose in the liver, leading to the release of glucose into the bloodstream. Insulin, on the other hand, lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, not the pancreas, and is involved in stress response and metabolism. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is primarily responsible for regulating metabolism.

5. What is the function of the immune system?

• A. To transport oxygen
• B. To fight infection
• C. To digest food
• D. To produce hormones

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To fight infection.' The immune system's primary function is to protect the body from infections and foreign invaders by recognizing and responding to pathogens. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and preventing diseases caused by harmful microorganisms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the immune system is not responsible for transporting oxygen, digesting food, or producing hormones. These functions are carried out by other systems in the body, such as the respiratory system, digestive system, and endocrine system, respectively.

Similar Questions