HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test
1. Which structure of the respiratory system is involved in gas exchange?
- A. Trachea
- B. Bronchioles
- C. Alveoli
- D. Larynx
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The alveoli are the primary site for gas exchange in the respiratory system. These tiny air sacs in the lungs are where oxygen is taken up into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is released from the bloodstream into the lungs to be exhaled. The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that carries air to and from the lungs but is not directly involved in gas exchange. Bronchioles (Choice B) are smaller airway branches that lead to the alveoli but do not participate in gas exchange themselves. The larynx (Choice D) plays a role in producing sound and protecting the airway but is not primarily responsible for gas exchange.
2. Which part of the brain is responsible for balance and coordination?
- A. Cerebellum
- B. Cerebrum
- C. Medulla oblongata
- D. Hypothalamus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. The cerebellum, situated at the back of the brain, is responsible for coordinating voluntary movements and maintaining balance and posture. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to regulate motor movements. The cerebrum (choice B) is responsible for higher brain functions such as thinking and decision-making, the medulla oblongata (choice C) controls vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate, and the hypothalamus (choice D) is involved in regulating basic biological needs like hunger, thirst, and body temperature.
3. When are gallstones most problematic?
- A. When they block a duct
- B. When they contain cholesterol
- C. When they contain bilirubin
- D. When they begin to dissolve
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Gallstones become most problematic when they block a duct, such as the bile duct or cystic duct. This blockage can lead to various complications, including inflammation, infection, and even damage to the gallbladder or liver. In severe cases, a blocked duct can cause intense pain, jaundice, and other serious symptoms that require medical intervention. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the presence of cholesterol or bilirubin in gallstones or the process of dissolution do not necessarily indicate when gallstones become most problematic. The critical issue arises when the stones obstruct a duct, leading to complications.
4. Which of the following structures regulates the transport of substances in and out of a cell?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Cell membrane
- C. Cytoplasm
- D. Mitochondria
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is responsible for regulating the transport of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selective barrier, allowing the passage of certain molecules while restricting others. This selective permeability helps maintain homeostasis within the cell by controlling the movement of essential substances like nutrients and waste products. The nucleus (Choice A) is the organelle that houses the cell's genetic material and is not directly involved in regulating substance transport. Cytoplasm (Choice C) is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and does not play a direct role in regulating substance transport. Mitochondria (Choice D) are responsible for energy production in the cell through cellular respiration and are not primarily involved in substance transport.
5. How do the digestive system and urinary system work together?
- A. The digestive system controls the function of the ureter.
- B. The urinary system removes toxins from the products of digestion.
- C. The digestive system manufactures hormones that influence urination.
- D. The urinary system eliminates some waste products of digestion.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the urinary system eliminates some waste products of digestion. After digestion in the digestive system, nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream, and waste products are transported to the kidneys via the urinary system to be excreted as urine. This process helps eliminate waste products generated during digestion, illustrating the coordination between the digestive and urinary systems. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect as the ureter is part of the urinary system, not controlled by the digestive system. Choice B is incorrect as the urinary system primarily removes metabolic waste, not toxins from digestion. Choice C is incorrect because the digestive system mainly aids in digestion and nutrient absorption, not hormone production affecting urination.
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