HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test
1. Which plane would you use to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity?
- A. Sagittal
- B. Transverse
- C. Frontal
- D. Coronal
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The transverse plane, also known as the horizontal plane, runs horizontally from left to right, dividing the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. This plane is ideal for separating the abdominal cavity (located below) from the thoracic cavity (located above). The sagittal plane (choice A) divides the body into left and right portions, the frontal plane (choice C) divides the body into front and back portions, and the coronal plane (choice D) is another term for the frontal plane. Therefore, when looking to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity, the transverse plane is the most appropriate choice.
2. What is the term for red blood cell production?
- A. Hematopoiesis
- B. Erythropoiesis
- C. Phagocytosis
- D. Thrombopoiesis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct term for red blood cell production is erythropoiesis. This process specifically refers to the production of red blood cells, mainly occurring in the bone marrow. Hematopoiesis is a broader term that encompasses the production of all blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Phagocytosis is the process of engulfing and digesting particles by cells like macrophages, not related to red blood cell production. Thrombopoiesis is the production of platelets, not red blood cells.
3. 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.
4. Which part of the brain is responsible for balance and coordination?
- A. Cerebellum
- B. Cerebrum
- C. Medulla oblongata
- D. Hypothalamus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. The cerebellum, situated at the back of the brain, is responsible for coordinating voluntary movements and maintaining balance and posture. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to regulate motor movements. The cerebrum (choice B) is responsible for higher brain functions such as thinking and decision-making, the medulla oblongata (choice C) controls vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate, and the hypothalamus (choice D) is involved in regulating basic biological needs like hunger, thirst, and body temperature.
5. What is the primary function of the heart?
- A. To filter blood
- B. To transport oxygen and nutrients
- C. To remove waste
- D. To regulate temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the heart is to pump oxygenated blood and nutrients throughout the body, supplying cells with vital substances. Choice A is incorrect as the kidneys are responsible for filtering blood. Choice C is incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by organs like the kidneys and liver. Choice D is incorrect as regulating body temperature is mainly controlled by mechanisms such as sweating and shivering, not the heart.
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