question

ATI RN

WGU Pathophysiology Final Exam

1. What is the main function of the mitochondria in a cell?

A. To produce energy in the form of ATP
B. To synthesize proteins
C. To store genetic information
D. To regulate cell growth

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To produce energy in the form of ATP. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through a process called cellular respiration. This energy is essential for various cellular activities. Choice B is incorrect because protein synthesis primarily occurs in the ribosomes. Choice C is incorrect as the genetic information is stored in the cell's nucleus. Choice D is incorrect as the regulation of cell growth involves various other organelles and processes within the cell.

2. Which of the following best describes Cushing’s syndrome?

A. Hypersecretion of growth hormone
B. Excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal glands
C. Insufficient production of insulin
D. Increased levels of ACTH

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cushing’s syndrome is characterized by the excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal glands, not growth hormone (Choice A), insulin (Choice C), or ACTH (Choice D). The increased cortisol levels lead to a variety of symptoms associated with Cushing’s syndrome.

3. A patient is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid) for hypothyroidism. What is a key point the nurse should include in the patient education?

A. Take the medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water to ensure proper absorption.
B. Do not take this medication with calcium supplements.
C. Avoid taking this medication with grapefruit juice.
D. Take the medication with food to enhance absorption.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, typically 30 minutes to an hour before breakfast, to ensure proper absorption. Taking it with food, calcium supplements, or grapefruit juice can interfere with its absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking levothyroxine with calcium supplements can reduce its effectiveness. Choice C is incorrect because grapefruit juice can also interfere with levothyroxine absorption. Choice D is incorrect because taking levothyroxine with food can decrease its absorption.

4. Hematopoiesis occurs primarily in the bone marrow. What cells are formed during this process?

A. Pancreatic beta cells
B. Red blood cells
C. Gastric parietal cells
D. Neurons and glial cells

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Red blood cells. Hematopoiesis is the process of blood cell formation that primarily occurs in the bone marrow. Red blood cells are one of the main cell types formed during this process. Pancreatic beta cells (Choice A), gastric parietal cells (Choice C), and neurons and glial cells (Choice D) are not formed during hematopoiesis. Pancreatic beta cells are involved in insulin production, gastric parietal cells secrete gastric acid, and neurons and glial cells are part of the nervous system.

5. The signs of thyroid crisis resulting from Graves' disease include:

A. constipation with gastric distension.
B. bradycardia and bradypnea.
C. hyperthermia and tachycardia.
D. constipation and lethargy.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Thyroid crisis in Graves' disease typically presents with hyperthermia (high body temperature) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate). These symptoms are a result of excessive thyroid hormone production and can lead to life-threatening complications if not promptly addressed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because constipation with gastric distension, bradycardia and bradypnea, and constipation and lethargy are not typical signs of a thyroid crisis in Graves' disease.