HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test
1. In the human body, the ribs are ___________ to the lungs.
- A. medial
- B. superior
- C. anterior
- D. deep
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: anterior.' The term 'anterior' refers to a position in front of or toward the front of the body. In this case, the ribs are positioned in front of the lungs when considering the anatomical position. The term 'medial' means toward the midline of the body, 'superior' means above or higher in position, and 'deep' refers to a position farther from the surface or external part. Therefore, the most appropriate choice is 'anterior' when describing the relationship between the ribs and the lungs.
2. Where does primary peristalsis occur?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Stomach
- C. Nervous system
- D. Small intestine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Primary peristalsis occurs in the esophagus. Peristalsis is the coordinated muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. In the esophagus, primary peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like contractions that push food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the natural and automatic process that occurs to facilitate the movement of food during digestion. The stomach (choice B), nervous system (choice C), and small intestine (choice D) are not the primary sites where peristalsis occurs in the digestive system.
3. What is the primary function of red blood cells?
- A. Clotting blood
- B. Transporting oxygen
- C. Fighting infection
- D. Carrying hormones
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and organs. This is essential for cellular respiration and overall body functions. Red blood cells do not play a role in clotting blood, fighting infection, or carrying hormones. Choice A is incorrect because clotting blood is primarily done by platelets and other components of blood. Choice C is incorrect as fighting infection is a function mainly carried out by white blood cells. Choice D is incorrect because carrying hormones is primarily attributed to proteins like albumin and specific hormone-carrying proteins.
4. Which hormone is produced by the adrenal medulla?
- A. Insulin
- B. Adrenaline
- C. Cortisol
- D. Melatonin
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is the correct hormone produced by the adrenal medulla. It plays a crucial role in the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy stores to prepare the body for perceived threats. Insulin (Choice A) is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels, not by the adrenal medulla. Cortisol (Choice C) is produced by the adrenal cortex and is involved in regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress. Melatonin (Choice D) is produced by the pineal gland and regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
5. Which part of the brain is responsible for regulating involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate?
- A. Cerebrum
- B. Cerebellum
- C. Medulla oblongata
- D. Frontal lobe
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The medulla oblongata, located in the brain stem, is responsible for regulating involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. It contains vital centers that control these essential functions to maintain life. The cerebrum is primarily involved in higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary movements; the cerebellum plays a crucial role in coordinating movement and balance; and the frontal lobe is responsible for functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and voluntary muscle movements. Therefore, the correct answer is the medulla oblongata (Choice C).
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