Nursing Elites

1. What is the main function of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located above the larynx?

• A. To warm and humidify inhaled air
• B. To control the passage of food and air
• C. To produce sound vibrations for speech
• D. To sense the presence of foreign objects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the epiglottis is to control the passage of food and air. It acts as a cover for the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. This mechanism ensures that food safely travels down the esophagus to the stomach, while air simultaneously enters the trachea and moves into the lungs for respiration. Choice A is incorrect as the warming and humidifying of inhaled air primarily occur in the nasal cavity. Choice C is incorrect because sound production for speech involves structures like the vocal cords rather than the epiglottis. Choice D is incorrect as sensing foreign objects is not a primary function of the epiglottis; instead, this role is typically associated with sensory receptors in the respiratory tract.

2. What is hydroxyapatite?

• A. A mixture of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that strengthen the collagen matrix of bone.
• B. The structural unit of a bone that runs the length of the bone.
• C. The covering of bones at the point of articulation to prevent grinding.
• D. The lightest portion of a long bone and concentrated at the ends.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound composed of calcium and phosphorus that plays a crucial role in strengthening the collagen matrix of bones, contributing to their structural integrity and hardness. It is a key component of bone tissue and provides the mineralization necessary for bone strength and density. Choice B is incorrect because the structural unit of a bone is the osteon or Haversian system, not hydroxyapatite. Choice C is incorrect as it describes cartilage, not hydroxyapatite. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the epiphysis, which is not synonymous with hydroxyapatite.

3. What is a characteristic feature of a convex lens?

• A. Converge light rays
• B. Diverge light rays
• C. Focus sound waves
• D. Create virtual images only

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A convex lens is characterized by its ability to converge light rays. The convex lens is thicker in the middle and thinner at the edges, causing light rays passing through it to converge or come together at a focal point on the opposite side of the lens. This convergence of light rays is what distinguishes convex lenses. Choice B is incorrect as convex lenses do not diverge light rays. Choice C is incorrect as convex lenses do not focus sound waves but rather light waves. Choice D is incorrect as convex lenses can create both real and virtual images, not just virtual images.

4. The spleen, a large lymphatic organ, is located in the:

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The spleen is located in the abdomen, specifically in the upper left part of the abdomen, under the ribcage and above the stomach. It is an important organ in the lymphatic system responsible for filtering blood, storing blood cells, and fighting infection. It is not located in the chest, pelvis, or head and neck regions. Therefore, the correct answer is 'B: Abdomen.' Choices 'A: Chest,' 'C: Pelvis,' and 'D: Head and neck' are incorrect as the spleen is not situated in these anatomical areas.

5. What is the function of platelets in the blood?

• A. To transport oxygen
• B. To clot blood
• C. To fight infection
• D. To transport nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Platelets play a crucial role in clotting blood to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. They are responsible for initiating the coagulation process by forming clots at the site of injury, sealing the damaged blood vessels, and preventing further blood loss. Platelets do not primarily transport oxygen, fight infection, or transport nutrients. While red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen, white blood cells are involved in fighting infections, and nutrients are transported by plasma, platelets' main function is related to hemostasis and wound healing.

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