HESI A2
Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test
1. What is the primary function of the hypothalamus?
- A. Regulates body balance and thermoregulation
- B. Controls hunger and thirst
- C. Regulates sleep and circadian rhythms
- D. Controls voluntary movements
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary function of the hypothalamus is to regulate body balance and thermoregulation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body equilibrium by controlling functions such as body temperature and water balance. While the hypothalamus is also involved in hunger and thirst regulation, its main role is to ensure homeostasis by monitoring and adjusting body balance and temperature. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hunger and thirst regulation, sleep and circadian rhythm regulation, and control of voluntary movements are secondary functions of the hypothalamus compared to its primary role in maintaining body balance and thermoregulation.
2. Which hormone stimulates milk production in the breasts during lactation?
- A. norepinephrine
- B. antidiuretic hormone
- C. prolactin
- D. oxytocin
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During lactation, the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production in the breasts is 'prolactin.' Prolactin plays a crucial role in initiating and maintaining lactation by promoting the development of alveoli in the mammary glands and stimulating milk synthesis. While oxytocin is involved in the ejection of milk from the breasts, it is prolactin that primarily governs milk production. Norepinephrine is not directly involved in milk production, and antidiuretic hormone primarily regulates water balance and blood pressure, not milk production.
3. You have been given a sample tissue that has pillar-shaped cells arranged tightly together. The tissue you have is:
- A. Squamous Epithelium
- B. Cuboidal Epithelium
- C. Columnar Epithelium
- D. Transitional Epithelium
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Columnar Epithelium. Columnar epithelium is characterized by tall, pillar-like cells that are closely packed together. This arrangement allows for absorption and secretion in tissues like the digestive tract, where this type of epithelium is commonly found. Squamous epithelium (choice A) consists of flat cells, cuboidal epithelium (choice B) has cube-shaped cells, and transitional epithelium (choice D) is found in areas that need to stretch and expand, like the urinary bladder.
4. Which is a secondary defense for the body against pathogens?
- A. Tears
- B. Urine
- C. Inflammation
- D. Mucus
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Inflammation is a secondary defense mechanism for the body against pathogens. When tissues are injured or infected, inflammation occurs as a protective response involving increased blood flow, white blood cell migration, and tissue repair. This process helps contain and eliminate pathogens, preventing them from spreading further in the body. Tears (Choice A) are a primary defense containing lysozyme and other antimicrobial agents. Urine (Choice B) is typically considered a non-specific defense mechanism due to its flushing action in the urinary tract. Mucus (Choice D) acts as a physical barrier and traps pathogens, also considered a primary defense mechanism.
5. Which vitamin is important for blood clotting?
- A. Vitamin C
- B. Vitamin K
- C. Vitamin A
- D. Vitamin D
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin K is crucial for the synthesis of proteins involved in blood clotting, aiding in the prevention of excessive bleeding. Without sufficient Vitamin K, the blood may not clot properly, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and other related complications. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and the immune system, not specifically for blood clotting. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function. Vitamin D plays a role in calcium absorption and bone health, but it is not directly linked to blood clotting.
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