Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system?

• A. Filtration of air
• B. Production of mucus
• C. Prevention of food entering the trachea
• D. Oxygen exchange in the alveoli

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.

2. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition affecting blood sugar control. What is the main type of hormone deficiency associated with type 1 diabetes?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Estrogen
• D. Testosterone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Insulin. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to produce insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin deficiency in type 1 diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels as the body cannot effectively utilize glucose for energy. Glucagon (Choice B) is a hormone that works opposite to insulin, raising blood sugar levels. Estrogen (Choice C) and testosterone (Choice D) are not directly involved in blood sugar control or the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes.

3. Which cavity contains all of the frontal cavities? Choose only ONE best answer.

• A. Dorsal
• B. Thoracic
• C. Abdominopelvic
• D. Ventral

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ventral. The ventral cavity includes both the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities. The frontal cavities are part of the ventral cavity, which is located towards the front of the body, while the dorsal cavity is towards the back. The dorsal cavity contains the cranial and vertebral cavities, not the frontal cavities. The thoracic cavity is part of the ventral cavity but does not encompass all the frontal cavities. The abdominopelvic cavity is also part of the ventral cavity, but it does not include all of the frontal cavities. Therefore, the ventral cavity is the correct choice as it encompasses all the frontal cavities.

4. The adrenal cortex produces a group of steroid hormones called corticosteroids. What is a MAJOR function of corticosteroids?

• A. Regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels
• B. Control blood pressure and electrolyte balance
• C. Stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response
• D. Promote growth and development during puberty

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal cortex, primarily function to control blood pressure and electrolyte balance. One of the key corticosteroids, aldosterone, plays a crucial role in regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. This regulation is essential for maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because corticosteroids do not primarily regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response, or promote growth and development during puberty. While corticosteroids can have effects on insulin sensitivity, immune response, and growth, their major role is in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

5. Which part of the digestive system is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients?

• A. Stomach
• B. Small intestine
• C. Esophagus
• D. Large intestine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is lined with specialized cells that facilitate the absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. While the stomach plays a role in digestion by breaking down food with acid and enzymes, the actual absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine. The esophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach, but it does not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients.

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