what is the primary function of the adrenal glands
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the primary function of the adrenal glands?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the adrenal glands is to regulate metabolism and the body's stress response. The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that play a vital role in managing metabolism, immune response, and stress levels. Choice A is incorrect because insulin is produced by the pancreas, not the adrenal glands. Choice C is incorrect because fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system. Choice D is incorrect as the regulation of blood pressure involves organs like the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, not the adrenal glands.

2. The shoulder is _________ to the elbow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Proximal refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or origin. In this case, the shoulder is closer to the point of attachment to the body compared to the elbow, making it proximal to the elbow. 'Posterior' refers to the back side of the body, 'distal' means farther away from the point of attachment, and 'medial' refers to the middle of the body. These terms do not accurately describe the relationship between the shoulder and the elbow in this context.

3. Which hormone is involved in the body's stress response?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cortisol. Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, is involved in the body's stress response. It helps regulate metabolism, immune function, and the body's response to stressors by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Choice A, Insulin, is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and is not primarily involved in the stress response. Choice B, Adrenaline, is also known as epinephrine and is involved in the fight-or-flight response, which is related to stress but is not the main hormone in the body's stress response. Choice D, Melatonin, is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is not directly involved in the stress response.

4. What is the main component of the cell membrane?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main component of the cell membrane is the phospholipid bilayer, which is primarily composed of lipids. Lipids form a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment, providing structural integrity and regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell. Proteins are also essential components of the cell membrane, serving various functions such as transport, signaling, and cell recognition. Carbohydrates are present in the form of glycoproteins and glycolipids on the cell membrane surface, contributing to cell-cell recognition. Nucleic acids are not a primary component of the cell membrane.

5. Which of the following statements best describes endocrine glands?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'They secrete chemicals into the blood.' Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various body functions. This process helps in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating different physiological processes within the body. Choice A is incorrect as endocrine glands do not absorb chemicals from the blood; instead, they release hormones. Choice C is incorrect as endocrine glands do not filter chemicals from the blood; they secrete hormones. Choice D is incorrect as endocrine glands do not absorb chemicals from the lymphatic system; they release hormones into the bloodstream.

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