Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following describes the general function of cytokines in the immune system?

• A. They communicate between cells to instigate an immune response.
• B. They inhibit blood clotting during inflammation responses.
• C. They bind to specific pathogens to increase pathogen mass.
• D. They transport pathogens trapped in mucus to be destroyed in the stomach.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'They communicate between cells to instigate an immune response.' Cytokines are signaling molecules that act as messengers between cells in the immune system, playing a vital role in coordinating and regulating immune responses. They communicate with various immune cells to initiate appropriate responses against pathogens. Choice B is incorrect because cytokines do not inhibit blood clotting but rather regulate immune responses. Choice C is incorrect as cytokines do not bind to specific pathogens to increase their mass; instead, they regulate the immune response. Choice D is also incorrect because cytokines do not transport pathogens trapped in mucus to the stomach for destruction; they primarily function as signaling molecules within the immune system.

2. What is the main function of valence electrons in chemical bonding?

• A. They are responsible for holding the nucleus together.
• B. They are involved in forming bonds with other atoms.
• C. They determine the element's physical properties.
• D. They play no role in chemical reactions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom. These electrons are involved in forming bonds with other atoms, which is crucial for chemical bonding. By participating in bonding, valence electrons determine an atom's ability to form compounds and engage in chemical reactions. Therefore, the primary function of valence electrons is to facilitate the formation of bonds between atoms, making option B the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because valence electrons primarily influence chemical bonding by participating in the formation of bonds between atoms, rather than holding the nucleus together, determining physical properties, or having no role in chemical reactions.

3. What is the purpose of the periosteum, the tough outer layer of bone?

• A. Produces red blood cells
• B. Provides protection and nourishment to bone
• C. Forms the joint surface
• D. Stores minerals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The periosteum, the tough outer layer of bone, serves the purpose of providing protection to the bone and nourishing it through the blood vessels it contains. It acts as a protective layer for the bone structures. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the periosteum does not produce red blood cells (which is the function of bone marrow), form joint surfaces (which is typically the role of articular cartilage), or store minerals (which is primarily done by bone tissue itself and not the periosteum).

4. What is the medical term for heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid?

• A. Dysphagia
• B. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• C. Peptic ulcer
• D. Ulcerative colitis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A) Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing and is not specifically related to heartburn. B) Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the medical term for heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. C) Peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus, and it can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, not specifically heartburn. D) Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon and rectum, and it does not typically cause heartburn.

5. Which gas is the most abundant in Earth's atmosphere?

• A. Nitrogen
• B. Oxygen
• C. Carbon dioxide
• D. Argon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere, constituting approximately 78% of the air we breathe. It is essential for various biological processes, including plant growth and nitrogen fixation. Moreover, nitrogen is a key component of the greenhouse effect, playing a crucial role in regulating the planet's temperature. Oxygen, while important for respiration, comprises about 21% of the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide, though vital for photosynthesis and a greenhouse gas, is present in much lower concentrations than nitrogen. Argon, an inert gas, is a minor component of the atmosphere.

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