Nursing Elites

1. Where is a herniated lumbar disc most likely to cause pain?

• A. Along the radial nerve
• B. Within the spinal cord
• C. Along the sciatic nerve
• D. Along the tibial nerve

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A herniated lumbar disc is most likely to cause pain along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a long nerve that extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. Compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the leg. This condition is commonly referred to as sciatica. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a herniated lumbar disc typically affects the sciatic nerve, not the radial nerve, spinal cord, or tibial nerve.

2. Which organ is responsible for the production of hormones during stress?

• A. Parathyroid gland
• B. Adrenal cortex
• C. Posterior pituitary gland
• D. Hypothalamus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The adrenal cortex is the organ responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, which play a crucial role in the body's stress response. During stress, the adrenal cortex releases cortisol, a hormone that helps the body deal with stress by increasing blood sugar, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in metabolism. Parathyroid gland is responsible for calcium regulation, the posterior pituitary gland secretes hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin which are not directly related to the stress response, and the hypothalamus plays a role in regulating hormonal balance and various bodily functions but is not primarily responsible for producing stress hormones.

3. Which enzyme functions to break down lactose, a specific sugar found in milk and dairy products?

• A. Catalase
• B. Lipase
• C. Protease
• D. Lactase

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Lactase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products. When lactase breaks down lactose, it splits it into two simpler sugars, glucose, and galactose, which can then be absorbed and used by the body. Catalase is involved in breaking down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Lipase breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect for the specific breakdown of lactose.

4. Which vitamin is essential for immune system function?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Vitamin D is the correct answer. It is essential for immune system function as it helps regulate and support the immune response. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, which is necessary for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Vitamin A is important for vision and skin health, not specifically immune function. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties and its role in collagen production, not primarily for immune system function. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, but it is not directly related to immune system function.

5. Which structure in the eye is responsible for focusing light on the retina?

• A. Cornea
• B. Lens
• C. Retina
• D. Pupil

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The lens of the eye is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. It plays a crucial role in bending light rays to ensure that they converge on the retina, enabling clear vision. The cornea helps in focusing light, but the final adjustment and fine-tuning occur through the lens. The retina receives the focused light and converts it into neural signals for the brain to interpret. The pupil, on the other hand, controls the amount of light entering the eye by dilating or constricting.

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