HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?
- A. To transport oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
- B. To regulate body temperature
- C. To fight infections
- D. To produce energy
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. Oxygen is taken in during inhalation and transported to cells, while carbon dioxide is removed during exhalation as a waste product of cellular metabolism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the primary function of the respiratory system. Regulating body temperature is mainly controlled by the thermoregulatory system, fighting infections is a function of the immune system, and producing energy is primarily done by the metabolic system.
2. Which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism?
- A. Pituitary gland
- B. Adrenal gland
- C. Thyroid gland
- D. Pineal gland
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism. It produces hormones such as thyroxine, which plays a key role in influencing the body's metabolic rate. The pituitary gland is known as the 'master gland' but is not directly responsible for regulating metabolism. The adrenal gland is involved in the stress response and producing hormones like cortisol, not primarily regulating metabolism. The pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, not metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland.
3. Which of the following is not part of the central nervous system?
- A. Retina
- B. Spinal cord
- C. Brain
- D. Heart
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for processing and coordinating information. The retina is part of the eye, while the heart is part of the circulatory system. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Spinal cord' as it is not part of the central nervous system.
4. What is the function of the skin in protecting the body?
- A. To produce vitamin D
- B. To protect against pathogens
- C. To store nutrients
- D. To regulate body temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The skin serves several crucial functions in protecting the body. One of its primary roles is to act as a physical barrier against pathogens, preventing harmful microorganisms from entering the body. Choice A, 'To produce vitamin D,' is incorrect because while the skin is involved in vitamin D synthesis upon exposure to sunlight, its primary protective role is against pathogens. Choice C, 'To store nutrients,' is incorrect as the skin is not a primary organ for nutrient storage. Choice D, 'To regulate body temperature,' is a function of the skin, but the primary role in protecting the body is to act as a barrier against pathogens.
5. 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.
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