Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

• A. Heartbeat
• B. Respiration
• C. Electrolyte and water balance
• D. Homeostasis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

2. What term describes a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave-like fashion?

• A. digestion
• B. deglutition
• C. defecation
• D. peristalsis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the series of muscle contractions that move food down the digestive tract in a wave-like manner. This process helps propel food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestion (Choice A) refers to the breakdown of food into smaller components, deglutition (Choice B) is the act of swallowing, and defecation (Choice C) is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term to describe the described muscle contractions in the digestive system.

3. Which organ stores and concentrates bile?

• A. Liver
• B. Gallbladder
• C. Pancreas
• D. Stomach

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Gallbladder. The gallbladder is the organ that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion of fats in the small intestine. The liver produces bile, which is then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder until it is released into the small intestine when needed. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the liver produces bile, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes, and the stomach is primarily involved in the digestion of food through acid secretion and mechanical processes, not in storing bile.

4. What is the main consequence of a malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones?

• A. Increased energy levels and weight loss
• B. Decreased heart rate and body temperature
• C. Enhanced muscle growth and bone development
• D. Faster metabolism and heightened alertness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased heart rate and body temperature. A malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones leads to hypothyroidism, resulting in decreased metabolic activity. This reduction in metabolic rate can cause a decreased heart rate and lower body temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hypothyroidism typically manifests as symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, bradycardia, and decreased body temperature, rather than increased energy levels, enhanced muscle growth, faster metabolism, or heightened alertness.

5. What are the tiny contractile units within muscle cells called?

• A. Myocytes
• B. Myofibrils
• C. Sarcomeres
• D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the smallest contractile units within muscle cells. They consist of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which interact to produce muscle contractions. Myocytes are the entire muscle cells, myofibrils are bundles of protein filaments found within muscle cells, and tendons are tough connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. Therefore, sarcomeres specifically represent the contractile units responsible for muscle contraction, making them the correct answer in this context.

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