HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. Which hormone is released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?
- A. Insulin
- B. Glucagon
- C. Cortisol
- D. Somatostatin
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is the hormone released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, helping to decrease blood glucose levels and store excess glucose for energy or future use. Glucagon, on the other hand, raises blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen into glucose. Cortisol and somatostatin do not directly regulate blood glucose levels in the same manner as insulin and glucagon.
2. What is the primary function of white blood cells?
- A. To carry oxygen
- B. To fight infections
- C. To transport nutrients
- D. To clot blood
Correct answer: B
Rationale: White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune system by primarily fighting off infections caused by pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and other invaders. They help the body recognize and destroy these harmful agents, contributing to the body's defense mechanisms against diseases. Choice A is incorrect because the primary function of red blood cells, not white blood cells, is to carry oxygen. Choice C is incorrect as the transportation of nutrients is mainly carried out by the bloodstream as a whole, not specifically by white blood cells. Choice D is incorrect as the process of blood clotting is primarily managed by platelets in the blood, not white blood cells.
3. Which of the following endocrine system glands releases the thyrotrophic-releasing hormone, growth hormone-releasing hormone, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone?
- A. Thymus
- B. Pituitary gland
- C. Pineal gland
- D. Hypothalamus
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, the Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for releasing key hormones like thyrotrophic-releasing hormone, growth hormone-releasing hormone, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone. These hormones play essential roles in regulating various body functions by influencing the activities of other endocrine glands. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the thymus is involved in immune function, the pituitary gland releases different hormones, and the pineal gland primarily produces melatonin, not the hormones mentioned in the question.
4. What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?
- A. To transport oxygen and nutrients
- B. To regulate body temperature
- C. To remove waste products
- D. To produce hormones
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To transport oxygen and nutrients.' The primary function of the cardiovascular system is to transport oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells throughout the body and remove waste products. Choice B is incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily the function of the body's thermoregulatory system, including sweat glands and blood vessels near the skin surface. Choice C is incorrect because while the cardiovascular system does help remove waste products through circulation, it is not its primary function. Choice D is incorrect as hormone production is mainly carried out by endocrine glands, not the cardiovascular system.
5. Which vitamin is essential for the clotting of blood?
- A. Vitamin A
- B. Vitamin K
- C. Vitamin C
- D. Vitamin D
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of proteins required for blood clotting. It specifically assists in the activation of clotting factors to prevent excessive bleeding from injuries. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in maintaining a balance between clotting and bleeding in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and acts as an antioxidant. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.
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