Nursing Elites

1. What controls the involuntary, rhythmic contractions of the heart muscle?

• A. Lungs
• B. Brain
• C. Spinal cord
• D. Sinoatrial node (located within the heart)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Sinoatrial node (located within the heart). The involuntary, rhythmic contractions of the heart muscle are controlled by a specialized group of cells located within the heart called the sinoatrial node (SA node). The SA node acts as the heart's natural pacemaker, producing electrical impulses that regulate the heart rate and synchronize the contractions of the heart muscle. Choices A, B, and C (Lungs, Brain, Spinal cord) are not responsible for directly influencing the rhythmic contractions of the heart muscle.

2. Which of the following statements accurately characterizes the relationship between genes and chromosomes?

• A. Each gene contains multiple chromosomes.
• B. Each chromosome contains multiple genes.
• C. Genes and chromosomes are two different things referring to the same entity.
• D. Genes and chromosomes are not interchangeable terms and do not always occur in equal numbers.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Each chromosome contains multiple genes. Genes, which are segments of DNA, are located on chromosomes and carry hereditary information. Chromosomes contain many genes, indicating that genes are part of the structure of chromosomes. Choice A is incorrect because genes do not contain chromosomes; rather, they are located on chromosomes. Choice C is incorrect as genes and chromosomes are distinct entities with different functions. Choice D is incorrect because genes and chromosomes are related but not in equal numbers; chromosomes contain multiple genes, but the number of genes can vary between chromosomes.

3. Which statement is true regarding the process of digestion?

• A. Digestion of starch begins in the mouth.
• B. Amylase is produced by the stomach to help break down food in the upper intestine.
• C. The di- and tri-saccharides produced in early digestion are absorbed through the intestinal wall.
• D. Proteases are responsible for breaking down starches.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'Digestion of starch begins in the mouth' is correct. Salivary amylase, an enzyme produced in the salivary glands, initiates the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars like maltose in the mouth before further digestion in the stomach. This initial breakdown of starch is crucial in the digestion of carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. Choice B is incorrect because amylase is produced in the salivary glands, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because di- and tri-saccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides before absorption. Choice D is incorrect because proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, not starches.

4. During nuclear transmutation, a target nucleus is bombarded with a particle to create:

• A. A heavier isotope of the same element
• B. A lighter isotope of the same element
• C. An entirely new element
• D. A chain reaction of nuclear fission

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During nuclear transmutation, a target nucleus is bombarded with a particle to create an entirely new element. This process involves changing the number of protons in the nucleus, resulting in the creation of a different element. Options A and B are incorrect because nuclear transmutation leads to the formation of a new element, not a heavier or lighter isotope of the same element. Option D, a chain reaction of nuclear fission, is incorrect as nuclear transmutation involves the direct conversion of one element into another through bombardment with particles, not the initiation of a fission chain reaction.

5. Which term describes a position closer to the midline of the body? Example: The chest is medial to the arm.

• A. Lateral
• B. Medial
• C. Proximal
• D. Distal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Medial.' 'Medial' refers to a position closer to the midline of the body, while 'lateral' refers to a position further from the midline. 'Proximal' describes a position closer to the point of attachment or trunk of the body, while 'distal' refers to a position further away from the point of attachment or trunk.

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