HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test
1. What is the normal pH of human arterial blood?
- A. 6.8
- B. 7.4
- C. 7.9
- D. 8.2
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The normal pH of human arterial blood is approximately 7.4. This slightly alkaline pH is crucial for the proper functioning of enzymes and biochemical processes in the body. Any significant deviation from this pH level can result in serious health issues such as acidosis or alkalosis. Choice A (6.8) is incorrect as it is lower than the normal pH of arterial blood, indicating acidity. Choice C (7.9) and Choice D (8.2) are incorrect as they are higher than the normal pH of arterial blood, indicating alkalinity.
2. Enlargement of the thyroid, commonly known as a goiter, might be expected to affect ___________.
- A. swallowing
- B. insulin levels
- C. sleep
- D. digestion
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Enlargement of the thyroid, known as a goiter, can compress the nearby structures in the neck, including the esophagus. This compression can lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a sensation of pressure in the throat. Therefore, an enlarged thyroid gland is expected to affect swallowing. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a goiter primarily affects structures in the neck due to its physical enlargement, rather than directly impacting insulin levels, sleep, or digestion.
3. What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?
- A. To transport oxygen and nutrients
- B. To regulate body temperature
- C. To remove waste products
- D. To produce hormones
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To transport oxygen and nutrients.' The primary function of the cardiovascular system is to transport oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells throughout the body and remove waste products. Choice B is incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily the function of the body's thermoregulatory system, including sweat glands and blood vessels near the skin surface. Choice C is incorrect because while the cardiovascular system does help remove waste products through circulation, it is not its primary function. Choice D is incorrect as hormone production is mainly carried out by endocrine glands, not the cardiovascular system.
4. Which hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle?
- A. Melatonin
- B. Insulin
- C. Cortisol
- D. Thyroxine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its secretion is influenced by light exposure, with levels typically rising in the evening to promote sleep and falling in the morning to encourage wakefulness. Insulin is involved in regulating blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle. Cortisol plays a role in the body's stress response and circadian rhythm but is not the primary hormone regulating sleep-wake cycles. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, not the sleep-wake cycle.
5. How is pepsin utilized by the body?
- A. To break down proteins
- B. To break down starches
- C. To emulsify fats and oils
- D. To absorb water and nutrients
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.
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