Nursing Elites

1. The adrenal cortex produces a group of steroid hormones called corticosteroids. What is a MAJOR function of corticosteroids?

• A. Regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels
• B. Control blood pressure and electrolyte balance
• C. Stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response
• D. Promote growth and development during puberty

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal cortex, primarily function to control blood pressure and electrolyte balance. One of the key corticosteroids, aldosterone, plays a crucial role in regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. This regulation is essential for maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because corticosteroids do not primarily regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response, or promote growth and development during puberty. While corticosteroids can have effects on insulin sensitivity, immune response, and growth, their major role is in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

2. What is the pathway of oxygenated blood from the lungs?

• A. Lungs to the left atrium, through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, pumped into the aorta upon contraction, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries
• B. Lungs to the right atrium, through the mitral valve into the right ventricle, pumped into the aorta upon contraction, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and veins
• C. Lungs to the left atrium, directly to the right aorta, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries
• D. Lungs to the left atrium, through the septal valve, stored in the left ventricles, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct pathway of oxygenated blood from the lungs is as follows: Oxygenated blood travels from the lungs to the left atrium, then passes through the mitral valve into the left ventricle. From there, it is pumped into the aorta upon contraction of the heart and is then dispersed to various tissues throughout the body via a network of arteries and capillaries. Choice B is incorrect as it incorrectly mentions the right atrium and ventricle, which are associated with deoxygenated blood. Choice C is incorrect as it mentions a direct connection to the right aorta, which does not exist in the circulatory system. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the septal valve (which is not anatomically correct) and storing blood in the left ventricle, which does not occur in the normal circulation of blood.

3. Which type of white blood cell directly attacks and destroys pathogens like bacteria and viruses?

• A. Neutrophils
• B. Lymphocytes
• C. Monocytes
• D. Eosinophils

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system's response to infections. They are phagocytes, meaning they engulf and destroy pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are known for their rapid response to infections, making them the primary cell type that directly attacks and destroys pathogens. Lymphocytes, although important in adaptive immunity, are not primarily responsible for directly attacking and destroying pathogens. Monocytes are involved in phagocytosis and immune response regulation but are not the primary cell type for direct pathogen destruction like neutrophils. Eosinophils are mainly involved in combating multicellular parasites and are not the primary cell type for targeting bacteria and viruses.

4. What is the muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach?

• A. Pharynx
• B. Esophagus
• C. Trachea
• D. Larynx

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Esophagus. The esophagus is indeed the muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Food is transported down the esophagus via peristalsis, a series of muscle contractions. The pharynx is the area behind the mouth and nasal cavity, the trachea connects the larynx to the bronchi in the lungs, and the larynx is the voice box located in the throat. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect in the context of the question.

5. What is the function of a cell wall?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Its main function is to provide structural support and protection for the cell, helping maintain the cell's shape and preventing it from bursting or collapsing. The cell wall also allows for the passage of water, ions, and other molecules in and out of the cell. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because those functions are typically carried out by other cellular structures. Option B is performed by the cell membrane, option C by ribosomes, and option D by the nucleus, which stores genetic material.

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