Nursing Elites

1. What is the main function of the epiglottis?

• A. To store bile
• B. To absorb nutrients
• C. To prevent food from entering the trachea
• D. To produce digestive enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action helps direct food and liquids into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach for digestion, while also protecting the respiratory system from potential blockages that could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the epiglottis is not involved in storing bile, absorbing nutrients, or producing digestive enzymes. Understanding the role of the epiglottis in the swallowing process is crucial for maintaining proper respiratory and digestive functions.

2. What is the function of the adrenal glands?

• A. To regulate metabolism
• B. To produce bile
• C. To produce red blood cells
• D. To regulate blood glucose

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: To regulate blood glucose. The adrenal glands play a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels and the body's response to stress. Choice A, 'To regulate metabolism,' is incorrect as the primary role of the adrenal glands is not directly related to metabolism regulation. Choice B, 'To produce bile,' is incorrect because bile is produced by the liver, not the adrenal glands. Choice C, 'To produce red blood cells,' is also incorrect as the production of red blood cells primarily occurs in the bone marrow, not the adrenal glands.

3. What type of bone is the kneecap (patella)?

• A. Long bone
• B. Short bone
• C. Flat bone
• D. Irregular bone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Flat bone. The kneecap (patella) is classified as a flat bone. Flat bones are thin, flattened bones that provide protection and offer a broad surface for muscle attachment. The patella fits this description as it is a flat, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint, protecting the knee and providing attachment points for muscles like the quadriceps. Choice A, long bone, is incorrect as long bones are typically found in the arms and legs, not in the knee area. Choice B, short bone, is incorrect as short bones are cube-shaped and are not characteristic of the patella. Choice D, irregular bone, is incorrect as irregular bones have complex shapes and do not apply to the flat, triangular structure of the patella.

4. What are the microscopic units responsible for muscle contraction called?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the fundamental contractile units of skeletal muscles and are responsible for muscle contraction. They consist of actin and myosin filaments that slide past each other during muscle contraction. Neurons are responsible for transmitting signals to and from muscles but are not directly involved in muscle contraction. Myofibrils are composed of sarcomeres and are the structures within muscle cells where muscle contractions take place. Tendons are connective tissues that attach muscles to bones and are not directly involved in muscle contraction.

5. What is the difference between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron?

• A. Sensory neurons carry signals from sensory receptors towards the central nervous system, while motor neurons carry signals away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands.
• B. Sensory neurons control voluntary muscles, while motor neurons control involuntary muscles.
• C. Sensory neurons are located in the peripheral nervous system, while motor neurons are located in the central nervous system.
• D. Sensory neurons detect light, while motor neurons detect sound.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sensory neurons are responsible for carrying signals from sensory receptors towards the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), allowing the brain to receive information about the external environment. On the other hand, motor neurons carry signals away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, enabling the brain to control voluntary and involuntary movements. Choice B is incorrect because sensory neurons do not control muscles, and motor neurons control both voluntary and involuntary muscles. Choice C is incorrect as sensory neurons are located in the peripheral nervous system, while motor neurons are located in the central nervous system. Choice D is incorrect because sensory neurons detect various stimuli such as touch, taste, smell, and sound, while motor neurons are not involved in detecting sensory stimuli.

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