Nursing Elites

1. The muscular diaphragm plays a vital role in respiration. When it contracts, it:

• A. Increases lung volume for inhalation
• B. Decreases lung volume for exhalation
• C. Filters dust and particles from inhaled air
• D. Produces mucus to lubricate the airways

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The muscular diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and flattening during inhalation. This action increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, which leads to a decrease in pressure within the lungs, allowing air to rush in and fill the expanded space. Choice B is incorrect because the diaphragm contracting increases the lung volume for inhalation, not decreases it for exhalation. Choice C is incorrect as the role of filtering dust and particles is primarily performed by the respiratory system's other structures like the nasal passages and the mucous membranes. Choice D is incorrect as mucus production is mainly carried out by specialized cells in the respiratory system and not by the diaphragm.

2. What is the function of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart?

• A. To generate electrical impulses for heart contraction
• B. To transport blood throughout the body
• C. To provide lubrication for heart movement
• D. To protect the heart and anchor it in place

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart and contains a small amount of fluid to provide lubrication for the movement of the heart within the chest cavity. It helps reduce friction as the heart beats and moves. Choice A is incorrect because the generation of electrical impulses for heart contraction is primarily the function of the heart's specialized conduction system. Choice B is incorrect as the pericardium is not involved in the transportation of blood throughout the body. Choice D is also incorrect as while the pericardium does protect the heart, its primary function is to provide lubrication and reduce friction.

3. Where does the digestion of food start?

• A. Esophagus
• B. Stomach
• C. Small intestine
• D. Mouth

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the mouth. Digestion begins in the mouth where mechanical breakdown occurs through chewing, and chemical breakdown begins with saliva. Enzymes in saliva start breaking down carbohydrates, initiating the digestion process. The esophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach and does not play a role in the digestion process. The stomach continues the digestion process after the food leaves the mouth. The small intestine is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food, rather than being the initial site of digestion.

4. The number of protons in an atom determines its:

• A. Mass number
• B. Atomic number
• C. Atomic weight
• D. Valence electron count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in an atom is known as the atomic number. The atomic number uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. It is a fundamental property of an element and directly influences its chemical behavior and interactions. The mass number, on the other hand, is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom, not just protons. Atomic weight is the average mass of an element's isotopes considering their relative abundance, not solely based on the number of protons. Valence electron count refers to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, influencing its ability to form bonds and participate in chemical reactions, but it is not determined by the number of protons in the atom.

5. What is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body responsible for draining lymph from most of the body called?

• A. Jugular vein
• B. Thoracic duct
• C. Subclavian vein
• D. Aorta

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thoracic duct. The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body and is responsible for draining lymph from most of the body. The jugular vein, subclavian vein, and aorta are not lymphatic vessels responsible for draining lymph. The jugular vein and subclavian vein are blood vessels, while the aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart. Understanding the role and anatomy of the lymphatic system is crucial for comprehending the body's immune response and fluid balance.

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