Nursing Elites

1. What is the role of the pancreas in digestion?

• A. To secrete bile
• B. To secrete digestive enzymes
• C. To absorb nutrients
• D. To transport waste

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To secrete digestive enzymes.' The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This process aids in the breakdown of food into nutrients that can be absorbed by the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the pancreas is not responsible for secreting bile (liver and gallbladder function), absorbing nutrients (small intestine function), or transporting waste (colon function) in the digestive system.

2. How can bacteria acquire new genetic material from their environment?

• A. Transformation
• B. Transduction
• C. Conjugation
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Transformation: Transformation is the process by which bacteria can take up free DNA from their environment and incorporate it into their own genome, leading to the acquisition of new genetic material and traits. B) Transduction: Transduction involves the transfer of genetic material from one bacterium to another by a bacteriophage, a virus that infects bacteria. The bacteriophage carries bacterial DNA from one host cell to another, facilitating the transfer of genetic material. C) Conjugation: Conjugation is a mechanism of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria where genetic material is transferred between two bacterial cells in direct contact. This transfer is facilitated by a conjugative plasmid carrying the genetic information. Therefore, all the processes mentioned (transformation, transduction, and conjugation) are ways in which bacteria can acquire new genetic material from their environment.

3. Which of the following is an example of a nosocomial infection?

• A. The common cold contracted from a family member
• B. A urinary tract infection (UTI) acquired during a catheterization
• C. A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil
• D. Food poisoning from undercooked chicken

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A nosocomial infection, also known as a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), is an infection that is acquired in a healthcare setting. In this case, a UTI acquired during a catheterization procedure is a classic example of a nosocomial infection. Catheterization involves the insertion of a tube into the urinary tract, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary system and lead to an infection. Nosocomial infections are a significant concern in healthcare settings due to the potential for increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Let's review the other options: A) The common cold contracted from a family member - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired outside of a healthcare setting. C) A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired from environmental exposure, not in a healthcare setting.

4. Why is the electrical conductivity of a strong acid solution higher than that of a weak acid solution?

• A. Strong acids are more concentrated.
• B. Strong acids release more hydrogen ions.
• C. Weak acids are better at dissolving salts.
• D. Strong acids have a lower pH.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because strong acids release more hydrogen ions compared to weak acids. This higher concentration of ions in the solution leads to a higher electrical conductivity. Strong acids ionize completely in solution, producing a higher concentration of ions that can conduct electricity, whereas weak acids only partially ionize, resulting in a lower concentration of ions and lower electrical conductivity. Choice A is incorrect because the concentration of the acid does not directly determine its electrical conductivity. Choice C is incorrect as the ability to dissolve salts is not directly related to electrical conductivity. Choice D is incorrect because the pH of the solution, although related to acidity, does not directly determine the electrical conductivity.

5. What is involved in the involuntary reflex arc that withdraws your hand from a hot object?

• A. Central nervous system only
• B. Peripheral nervous system only
• C. Both CNS and PNS
• D. Sensory neurons only

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The involuntary reflex arc that withdraws your hand from a hot object involves both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). When your hand touches a hot object, sensory neurons in the PNS detect the heat and send signals to the spinal cord in the CNS. The spinal cord processes this information and sends a signal back through motor neurons in the PNS to move your hand away from the hot object. This coordinated response requires the collaboration of both the CNS and PNS to protect the body from harm. Choice A is incorrect because the reflex arc involves more than just the central nervous system. Choice B is incorrect because the reflex arc involves more than just the peripheral nervous system. Choice D is incorrect because the reflex arc also involves motor neurons, not just sensory neurons.

Similar Questions