Nursing Elites

1. How many neurons typically comprise a sensory pathway?

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A sensory pathway generally consists of three neurons: a first-order neuron, a second-order neuron, and a third-order neuron. The first-order neuron carries sensory information from the periphery to the spinal cord or brainstem. The second-order neuron then transmits this information to the thalamus or cerebellum. Finally, the third-order neuron projects the sensory input to the cerebral cortex for processing and perception. Therefore, the correct answer is 3 (C). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical structure of a sensory pathway involving three neurons.

2. Which of the following characteristics is part of a person's genotype?

• A. Brown eyes that appear hazel in the sunlight
• B. The CFTR gene, which causes cystic fibrosis
• C. Black hair that grows rapidly
• D. Being a fast runner

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A genotype refers to a person's genetic makeup, which includes specific genes like the CFTR gene responsible for cystic fibrosis. Genes are the units of heredity and are part of an individual's genotype, influencing various traits and characteristics. Choice A, brown eyes that appear hazel in the sunlight, refers to a phenotype, which is the observable characteristics resulting from the interaction of genes and the environment. Choice C, black hair that grows rapidly, also describes a phenotype rather than a genotype. Choice D, being a fast runner, is a trait influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but it does not directly relate to a specific gene in the genotype.

3. Which of the following is not a component of blood?

• A. Red blood cells
• B. White blood cells
• C. Platelets
• D. Cartilage

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Cartilage. Cartilage is not a component of blood. Blood primarily consists of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen, white blood cells are part of the immune system, and platelets are essential for blood clotting. Cartilage, on the other hand, is a type of connective tissue found in various parts of the body, such as the joints and nose, but it is not present in the blood. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are components of blood, while choice D, Cartilage, is the correct answer as it is not a component of blood.

4. The average life expectancy at birth in the United States at the beginning of the 21st century was about 75 years. The average life expectancy at birth in the middle of the 19th century was only about 40 years. Which of the following factors are likely to have contributed to the longer life expectancy in the 21st century? (Select the one that does not apply)

• A. The human body has evolved to become more resilient to its environment.
• B. There have been numerous advances in medical technology and treatments.
• C. Higher standards of basic cleanliness have helped people avoid illness.
• D. The creation of vaccines has nearly eliminated certain diseases that were once deadly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Medical advances, higher standards of cleanliness, and the creation of vaccines have all significantly contributed to the increase in life expectancy over time. While human evolution plays a role in adaptation to the environment over millennia, it is not a primary factor that has led to the substantial increase in life expectancy within a few centuries. The human body's evolution is a slow process that occurs over generations, while the advancements in medical technology, cleanliness, and vaccines have had a more immediate and direct impact on improving life expectancy.

5. How do sweat glands help regulate body temperature?

• A. Producing sebum for lubrication
• B. Constricting blood vessels in the skin
• C. Releasing a watery fluid that evaporates for cooling
• D. Thickening the epidermis for insulation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sweat glands play a vital role in regulating body temperature by releasing a watery fluid that evaporates from the skin's surface. This evaporation process helps cool the body down by dissipating heat, which is essential for maintaining a stable internal temperature. Choice A is incorrect because sweat glands do not produce sebum but rather a watery fluid. Choice B is incorrect because sweating itself does not involve the constriction of blood vessels; instead, it promotes heat loss through evaporation. Choice D is incorrect as sweat glands do not thicken the epidermis for insulation but rather facilitate the cooling process through sweat evaporation.

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