HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023
1. What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?
- A. Regulating blood pressure
- B. Filtering blood to remove waste
- C. Producing red blood cells
- D. Regulating electrolyte balance
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system is to filter blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. Kidneys act as a filtration system, removing waste like urea, excess salts, and toxins. While the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure by secreting renin and maintaining electrolyte balance by adjusting the levels of sodium, potassium, and other ions in the blood, their main and essential function is filtration and waste removal, making choice B the correct answer.
2. Which hormone is secreted by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?
- A. Insulin
- B. Glucagon
- C. Somatostatin
- D. Cortisol
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is secreted by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. It promotes the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscles, reducing blood sugar levels. Glucagon, on the other hand, works to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen into glucose and releasing it into the bloodstream. Somatostatin regulates the endocrine system and inhibits the release of insulin and glucagon. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, not the pancreas, and it plays a role in stress response and metabolism, but it does not directly lower blood glucose levels.
3. What is the primary role of hemoglobin in red blood cells?
- A. Carrying oxygen
- B. Carrying nutrients
- C. Carrying carbon dioxide
- D. Carrying waste products
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carrying oxygen. Hemoglobin's primary function in red blood cells is to bind with oxygen in the lungs and transport it to the body's tissues and cells. This process is crucial for cellular respiration and the overall oxygenation of the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hemoglobin primarily carries oxygen, not nutrients, carbon dioxide, or waste products.
4. What is the primary function of the nervous system?
- A. To transmit signals and coordinate body activities
- B. To fight infections
- C. To produce hormones
- D. To regulate body temperature
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary function of the nervous system is to transmit signals and coordinate body activities. It controls and regulates body functions by sending and receiving signals between different parts of the body, enabling responses to internal and external stimuli. This intricate network allows for communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body, ultimately facilitating movement, sensation, thoughts, and various bodily functions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary function of the nervous system. Fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system, producing hormones is the function of the endocrine system, and regulating body temperature involves mechanisms of thermoregulation within the body, not directly controlled by the nervous system.
5. Which hormone is produced by the pancreas?
- A. Insulin
- B. Glucagon
- C. Somatostatin
- D. Cortisol
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is the correct answer. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, helping to lower blood sugar levels. Glucagon, on the other hand, is also produced by the pancreas but functions to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating the release of glucose from the liver. Somatostatin is another hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate the endocrine system. Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays a role in stress response and metabolism, not by the pancreas.
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