what is the primary function of the adrenal glands
Logo

Nursing Elites

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. Which muscle is responsible for breathing?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for breathing. It is a large, dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the chest cavity. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing inhalation. When it relaxes, it returns to its dome shape, decreasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing exhalation. The intercostal muscles, located between the ribs, assist the diaphragm in breathing by expanding and contracting the chest cavity. The rectus abdominis and pectoralis major are not directly involved in the process of breathing.

3. What is the meaning of exocytosis?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Exocytosis is the process by which a cell releases substances to the outside by fusing with the plasma membrane. During exocytosis, vesicles containing molecules fuse with the cell membrane, allowing the release of the contents outside the cell. This process is crucial for the secretion of various substances such as hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they describe processes different from exocytosis. Choice A describes endocytosis, where the cell engulfs substances to bring them into the cell. Choice C is more aligned with pinocytosis, the process of engulfing liquid material. Choice D refers to phagocytosis, which is the uptake of solid particles by the cell.

4. The coronal plane of the body may also be called the ___________ plane.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: frontal. The coronal plane of the body is also known as the frontal plane. This plane divides the body into front (anterior) and back (posterior) sections. It is perpendicular to the sagittal plane and divides the body into front and back portions. The term 'coronal' is often used in radiology and anatomy to describe this specific anatomical plane. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the sagittal plane divides the body into left and right portions, the median plane is another name for the sagittal plane, and the axial plane is a term less commonly used to describe an anatomical plane.

5. What is the function of the stomach in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach plays a crucial role in the digestive system by breaking down food using gastric acid and digestive enzymes. This process transforms the food into a semi-liquid mixture known as chyme, which is further digested in the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach does not primarily absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store waste. These functions are carried out by other organs in the digestive system such as the small intestine, liver, and large intestine, respectively.

Similar Questions

The corpus callosum facilitates communication between which brain structures?
What is the primary function of the liver?
Which part of the brain controls involuntary actions such as breathing and heart rate?
Which organ system is primarily responsible for generating antibodies?
Which part of the brain controls voluntary movement?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$49/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses