Nursing Elites

1. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

2. Which hormone, produced by the pineal gland, plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and is often associated with the body's internal circadian rhythm?

• A. Melatonin
• B. Serotonin
• C. Dopamine
• D. Endorphin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Melatonin is the hormone produced by the pineal gland that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and is associated with the body's internal circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening, signaling to the body that it is time to sleep, and decrease in the morning, helping to wake up and feel alert. Serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins are neurotransmitters that serve different functions in the body and are not primarily responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Dopamine plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control. Endorphins are involved in pain regulation and are often referred to as the body's natural painkillers.

3. Which of the following are the products of anaerobic respiration in humans?

• A. Ethyl alcohol and CO2
• B. Ethyl alcohol only
• C. Lactic acid and CO2
• D. Lactic acid only

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During anaerobic respiration in humans, lactic acid and CO2 are produced. Choice A, 'Ethyl alcohol and CO2,' is incorrect because ethyl alcohol is not a product of anaerobic respiration in humans. Choice B, 'Ethyl alcohol only,' is incorrect as ethyl alcohol is not a product of anaerobic respiration in humans. Choice D, 'Lactic acid only,' is incorrect because CO2 is also a product of anaerobic respiration in humans.

4. What type of muscle is found in the walls of hollow organs like the intestines?

• A. Cardiac muscle
• B. Smooth muscle
• C. Skeletal muscle
• D. Voluntary muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is the correct type of muscle found in the walls of hollow organs like the intestines. It is responsible for movements such as peristalsis, aiding in the movement of food and other materials through the digestive system. Cardiac muscle (Choice A) is found in the heart and is responsible for the heart's contractions, not in hollow organs like the intestines. Skeletal muscle (Choice C) is attached to bones and responsible for voluntary movements, not in hollow organ walls. Voluntary muscle (Choice D) is another term for skeletal muscle, which is under conscious control, unlike smooth muscle in hollow organ walls.

5. What type of cells compose the epidermis?

• A. Osteoclasts
• B. Connective
• C. Dendritic
• D. Epithelial

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Epithelial. The epidermis is composed of epithelial cells, specifically called keratinocytes, which are responsible for producing keratin, a protein that provides the skin with strength and flexibility. Epithelial cells form the protective outer layer of the skin and play a crucial role in skin repair and regeneration. Choice A - Osteoclasts are cells involved in bone remodeling, not found in the epidermis. Choice B - Connective tissue cells are not the primary cells found in the epidermis. They are more commonly found in the dermis, providing structural support and elasticity to the skin. Choice C - Dendritic cells are part of the immune system and are present in the skin to help recognize pathogens and activate the immune response. However, they are not the main cell type that composes the epidermis.

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