Nursing Elites

1. Which hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle?

• A. Cortisol
• B. Melatonin
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Melatonin. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It helps signal to the body when it's time to sleep and wake up, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy sleep pattern. Choice A, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, not specifically in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Choice C, Thyroxine, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, not the sleep-wake cycle. Choice D, Insulin, is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle.

2. Which of the following is an example of a polymer?

• A. Methane
• B. Ethanol
• C. Polyethylene
• D. Acetic acid

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Polyethylene. Polyethylene is a polymer composed of a large number of repeating ethylene units linked together, forming a long-chain molecule, characteristic of polymers. Methane, ethanol, and acetic acid are small organic molecules that do not demonstrate the repeating unit structure typical of polymers. Therefore, they are not examples of polymers.

3. Which element is a critical component of DNA and RNA, essential for storing and transmitting genetic information?

• A. Oxygen
• B. Carbon
• C. Nitrogen
• D. Hydrogen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Carbon is the correct answer as it is a critical element in DNA and RNA, forming the backbone of these molecules. Its ability to form diverse bonds allows for efficient storage and transmission of genetic information. Oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen are also present in DNA and RNA but do not serve as the primary backbone element for these molecules. Oxygen is involved in the structure but not as the backbone element. Nitrogen is present in the bases of nucleotides, and hydrogen bonds help stabilize the structure.

4. What is the main function of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located above the larynx?

• A. To warm and humidify inhaled air
• B. To control the passage of food and air
• C. To produce sound vibrations for speech
• D. To sense the presence of foreign objects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the epiglottis is to control the passage of food and air. It acts as a cover for the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. This mechanism ensures that food safely travels down the esophagus to the stomach, while air simultaneously enters the trachea and moves into the lungs for respiration. Choice A is incorrect as the warming and humidifying of inhaled air primarily occur in the nasal cavity. Choice C is incorrect because sound production for speech involves structures like the vocal cords rather than the epiglottis. Choice D is incorrect as sensing foreign objects is not a primary function of the epiglottis; instead, this role is typically associated with sensory receptors in the respiratory tract.

5. The gland located on top of the kidneys responsible for regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance is the:

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Pituitary gland
• C. Adrenal gland
• D. Parathyroid gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The gland located on top of the kidneys responsible for regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance is the adrenal gland. The adrenal gland produces hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, which play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance in the body. The other choices, thyroid gland (choice A), pituitary gland (choice B), and parathyroid gland (choice D), do not have a primary role in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism, the pituitary gland controls various endocrine functions, and the parathyroid gland regulates calcium levels in the body.

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