Nursing Elites

1. What are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms, including humans, termed?

• A. Muscles
• B. Organs
• C. Tissues
• D. Cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cells are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms. They are the basic building blocks of life and carry out essential functions necessary for an organism to survive and function properly. Muscles, organs, and tissues are composed of cells, but cells are the smallest unit that can carry out all the functions of life. Muscles are made up of muscle tissue, which in turn is composed of muscle cells. Organs are structures made up of different types of tissues working together, and tissues are groups of cells with a similar structure and function. Therefore, while muscles, organs, and tissues are important components of living organisms, cells are the fundamental units that perform all the vital functions of life.

2. How is blood pressure controlled by the body?

• A. By adjusting heart rate only
• B. By regulating blood volume
• C. By baroreceptors and hormones
• D. By adjusting body temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Blood pressure is controlled by baroreceptors located in the aortic arch and carotid arteries that detect changes in blood pressure levels. When blood pressure is high, these receptors signal for adjustments to lower it. Additionally, hormones such as renin from the kidneys are released when blood pressure drops, further aiding in blood pressure regulation. Choice A is incorrect because blood pressure regulation involves more than just adjusting heart rate; it also includes vasodilation and vasoconstriction. Choice B is incorrect as while blood volume can impact blood pressure, it is not the primary mechanism of blood pressure control. Choice D is incorrect as body temperature regulation is a separate physiological process and not directly related to blood pressure control.

3. Which of the following is NOT an element of the respiratory system?

• A. Ribs
• B. Trachea
• C. Diaphragm
• D. Alveoli

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ribs. The ribs are part of the skeletal system, providing structure and protection to the thoracic cavity. The trachea, diaphragm, and alveoli are all essential components of the respiratory system. The trachea carries air to and from the lungs, the diaphragm aids in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change the volume of the thoracic cavity, and the alveoli are tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs in the lungs. Therefore, ribs do not play a direct role in the respiratory process and are not considered a part of the respiratory system.

4. What type of muscle is found in the walls of the heart?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cardiac muscle. Cardiac muscle is the specialized muscle found in the walls of the heart. It contracts involuntarily to pump blood throughout the body, ensuring circulation. Smooth muscle is typically found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels, aiding in their functions. Skeletal muscle is attached to bones and plays a vital role in movement and posture. Voluntary muscle is a general term for skeletal muscles that are under conscious control, unlike cardiac muscle which contracts involuntarily to maintain the heart's continuous pumping action.

5. What is the atomic number of an element?

• A. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
• B. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus.
• C. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell.
• D. The number of isotopes of an element.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. This number is crucial as it determines the element's identity and its position on the periodic table. Option B is incorrect because the number of neutrons can vary in isotopes but is not the atomic number. Option C is incorrect as the number of electrons in an atom's valence shell can vary based on the element's charge, not defining the atomic number. Option D is also incorrect because the number of isotopes is not the atomic number of an element.

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