what is the primary function of the skeletal system
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. What is the primary function of the skeletal system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the skeletal system is to protect vital organs, provide structural support, and enable movement. It serves as a framework that supports and protects internal organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs. Choice A is incorrect because blood cell production primarily occurs in the bone marrow, a component of the skeletal system but not its primary function. Choice C is incorrect because fat storage is not a primary function of the skeletal system. Choice D is incorrect because hormone secretion is mainly regulated by endocrine glands, not the skeletal system.

2. Which type of muscle tissue is found in the walls of hollow organs?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Smooth muscle tissue is found in the walls of hollow organs such as the intestines, blood vessels, and bladder. It contracts involuntarily, allowing for functions like peristalsis in the intestines and regulation of blood flow in blood vessels. Skeletal muscle (Choice A) is attached to bones, cardiac muscle (Choice B) is found in the heart, and striated muscle (Choice D) refers to both skeletal and cardiac muscles due to their striped appearance, but neither of these types are typically found in the walls of hollow organs.

3. Which part of the brain is involved in the regulation of heart rate and breathing?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata, situated in the brainstem, plays a crucial role in regulating vital functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It serves as the control center for involuntary actions, ensuring the body's automatic functions work properly. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the cerebrum is primarily responsible for functions such as thinking, voluntary movements, and sensory processing; the cerebellum is involved in coordination, balance, and muscle control; and the hypothalamus regulates body temperature, thirst, hunger, and some aspects of the autonomic nervous system but not specifically heart rate and breathing.

4. What does the parathyroid hormone regulate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The parathyroid hormone primarily regulates calcium levels in the blood. It acts to increase calcium levels by stimulating the release of calcium from bones, enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and promoting the conversion of vitamin D to its active form, which aids in calcium absorption from the intestines. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the parathyroid hormone does not play a significant role in the regulation of magnesium (Choice A), calcitonin (Choice C), or glucocorticoids (Choice D).

5. Which of the following is not part of the body’s secondary defense system?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cilia are not part of the body's secondary defense system. They are hair-like structures primarily involved in movement and transporting substances across cell surfaces, such as in the respiratory tract for debris and pathogen removal. However, cilia do not play a direct role in the immune response mechanisms characteristic of the body's secondary defense system. Macrophages, leukocytes, and T cells are immune cells that actively participate in the secondary defense system by targeting and eliminating pathogens.

Similar Questions

What is the main function of the circulatory system?
Which mineral supports the function of the thyroid?
What is the function of parathyroid hormone?
What is the main function of the endocrine system?
Which lobe of the brain is primarily responsible for processing sensory information related to touch, temperature, and body position?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

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

Other Courses