Nursing Elites

1. Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through which of the following structures?

• A. Schwann cell
• B. ganglion
• C. synapse
• D. axon

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through a structure called the synapse. The synapse is a specialized junction where the axon of one neuron meets the dendrite or cell body of another neuron. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron and travel across the synaptic cleft to bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, transmitting the signal between the two neurons. Choice A, Schwann cell, is incorrect as Schwann cells are responsible for producing myelin sheath around axons in the peripheral nervous system, not for transmitting neurotransmitters between neurons. Choice B, ganglion, is incorrect as ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system and do not directly participate in the transmission of chemical messages between neurons. Choice D, axon, is incorrect as the axon is a long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body and towards the axon terminals, where neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, but it is not the structure across which neurotransmitters travel to communicate between neurons.

2. Which property of a substance refers to the force exerted on an object due to gravity?

• A. Mass
• B. Weight
• C. Density
• D. Volume

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Weight.' Weight is the force exerted on an object due to gravity. Mass, on the other hand, refers to the amount of matter in an object. Density is the mass per unit volume of a substance, and volume is the amount of space occupied by an object. In this context, weight specifically relates to the gravitational force acting on an object, making it the most appropriate choice among the options provided.

3. A child complains of heavy breathing even when relaxing. They are an otherwise healthy child with no history of respiratory problems. What might be the issue?

• A. Asthma
• B. Blood clot
• C. Hyperventilation
• D. Exercising too hard

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, where a child complains of heavy breathing even when relaxing and has no history of respiratory problems, the most likely issue is hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is an abnormal breathing pattern where a person breathes in excess of the body's requirements. It can be triggered by stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or lower-than-normal carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Unlike asthma, a blood clot, or exercising too hard, hyperventilation fits the symptoms described and is more common in individuals without a history of respiratory problems.

4. What is the recommended daily intake of protein for adults to maintain healthy muscle mass?

• A. 0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight
• B. 1 gram per kilogram of body weight
• C. 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight
• D. 2 grams per kilogram of body weight

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The recommended daily intake of protein for adults to maintain healthy muscle mass is typically around 1 gram per kilogram of body weight. This amount can vary based on individual factors such as activity level, age, and overall health status. Consuming an adequate amount of protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall health and functioning of the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they suggest protein intake levels that are either too low (A) or unnecessarily high (C and D) for maintaining healthy muscle mass. Excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys and may not provide additional benefits for muscle health beyond the recommended levels.

5. What is the scientific term for the involuntary rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle?

• A. Peristalsis
• B. Myogenesis
• C. Myocardial contractility
• D. Systole and diastole

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Systole and diastole. Systole and diastole are the two phases of the cardiac cycle where the heart muscle contracts (systole) and relaxes (diastole) rhythmically to pump blood throughout the body. This rhythmic process ensures proper blood circulation by pumping blood to the lungs and the rest of the body. Peristalsis, on the other hand, refers to the involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, aiding in the movement of food and waste. Myogenesis is the process of muscle tissue formation, and myocardial contractility pertains to the heart muscle's ability to contract efficiently.

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