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. The Gram stain is a differential staining technique used to classify bacteria based on their cell wall composition. Gram-positive bacteria appear

• A. Pink
• B. Blue
• C. Red
• D. Purple

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Gram stain is a differential staining technique that categorizes bacteria into two groups based on their cell wall composition: Gram-positive and Gram-negative. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell walls, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure. Consequently, Gram-positive bacteria appear purple under the microscope after staining. On the other hand, Gram-negative bacteria possess a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that can be penetrated by the counterstain safranin, leading them to appear pink or red. Blue is not typically used to describe the color of bacteria in a Gram stain, making it an incorrect choice.

3. Which type of wave requires a medium to travel through?

• A. Electromagnetic waves
• B. Mechanical waves
• C. Sound waves
• D. Both A and C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mechanical waves, unlike electromagnetic waves, require a medium (such as air, water, or solids) to propagate. Sound waves are a specific type of mechanical wave that necessitates a medium, like air or water, for transmission. Electromagnetic waves, on the other hand, can travel through a vacuum as they do not rely on a medium for propagation. Choice A (Electromagnetic waves) is incorrect since they do not require a medium to travel. Choice C (Sound waves) is partially correct in that it is a type of mechanical wave that needs a medium but is not the only type. Choice D (Both A and C) is incorrect because electromagnetic waves do not require a medium, only mechanical waves like sound waves do.

4. What is the smallest bone in the human body?

• A. Stapes (Middle ear bone)
• B. Patella (Kneecap)
• C. Phalanges (Finger bones)
• D. Ribs

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stapes (Middle ear bone). The stapes, located in the middle ear, is indeed the smallest bone in the human body. Despite its small size, the stapes is vital for hearing as it transmits and amplifies sound vibrations, contributing significantly to auditory perception. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. The patella (kneecap) is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body, not the smallest bone. Phalanges are the bones in fingers and toes, not the smallest bone overall. Ribs are long bones that protect the chest cavity, not the smallest bone in the body.

5. Approximately how many muscles are in the human body?

• A. 100
• B. 200
• C. 600
• D. Over 600

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The human body has over 600 muscles responsible for various functions like movement, stability, and posture. These muscles work together enabling us to perform daily activities and are crucial for our overall health and well-being. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the human body has far more than 100, 200, or 600 muscles. Option D, 'Over 600,' is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the approximate number of muscles in the human body.

Similar Questions