Nursing Elites

1. What is the function of the epiglottis?

• A. Produces saliva
• B. Senses taste
• C. Prevents food from entering the windpipe
• D. Filters blood

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action ensures that food and liquids are directed to the esophagus and down into the stomach, rather than entering the respiratory system, which could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe functions of other structures in the body that are not related to the role of the epiglottis.

2. Where does the majority of nutrient absorption occur?

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine. The small intestine is where the final stages of digestion take place, and it is specialized for absorption with its large surface area and villi that increase nutrient absorption efficiency. The mouth is responsible for mechanical digestion through chewing, the stomach primarily aids in digestion through mixing and breakdown of food, and the large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, with minimal nutrient absorption.

3. Which hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle?

• A. Cortisol
• B. Melatonin
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Melatonin. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It helps signal to the body when it's time to sleep and wake up, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy sleep pattern. Choice A, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, not specifically in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Choice C, Thyroxine, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, not the sleep-wake cycle. Choice D, Insulin, is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle.

4. Where is the thymus gland, crucial for immune system development, located?

• A. Chest
• B. Abdomen
• C. Pelvis
• D. Head and neck

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The thymus gland is located in the chest, specifically in the upper part of the chest behind the breastbone (sternum). It plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes (T cells), which are important for the immune system's function. Choice B (Abdomen), C (Pelvis), and D (Head and neck) are incorrect locations for the thymus gland. The thymus is not found in the abdomen, pelvis, head, or neck regions; it is uniquely situated in the upper chest area.

5. How are the motor pathways of the ANS arranged?

• A. Single neuron from CNS to target organ
• B. Two neurons, a pre-ganglionic and post-ganglionic neuron
• C. Multiple neurons from CNS to target organ
• D. Single neuron from CNS to peripheral ganglia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The motor pathways of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are organized with two neurons: a pre-ganglionic neuron that transmits the signal from the central nervous system (CNS) to a ganglion, and a post-ganglionic neuron that conveys the signal from the ganglion to the target organ. This dual-neuron pathway enables the integration and modulation of signals before reaching the target organ, allowing for a more sophisticated and adaptable control system. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a single neuron pathway, which is not characteristic of ANS motor pathways. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests multiple neurons from the CNS to the target organ, which is not the typical arrangement. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a single neuron pathway from the CNS to peripheral ganglia, which does not account for the ganglionic transmission in ANS motor pathways.

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