Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is NOT an element of the respiratory system?

• A. Ribs
• B. Trachea
• C. Diaphragm
• D. Alveoli

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ribs. The ribs are part of the skeletal system, providing structure and protection to the thoracic cavity. The trachea, diaphragm, and alveoli are all essential components of the respiratory system. The trachea carries air to and from the lungs, the diaphragm aids in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change the volume of the thoracic cavity, and the alveoli are tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs in the lungs. Therefore, ribs do not play a direct role in the respiratory process and are not considered a part of the respiratory system.

2. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

3. When ice melts, it undergoes a...

• A. Chemical change
• B. Physical change
• C. Nuclear change
• D. Radioactive decay

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When ice melts, it undergoes a physical change, transitioning from a solid state to a liquid state. This change does not involve altering the chemical composition of the ice, making it a physical change rather than a chemical change, nuclear change, or radioactive decay. Choice A, 'Chemical change,' is incorrect because a chemical change involves a rearrangement of atoms resulting in new substances. Choice C, 'Nuclear change,' is incorrect as it refers to changes in the nucleus of an atom, not the phase transition of ice. Choice D, 'Radioactive decay,' is incorrect as it involves the spontaneous disintegration of an unstable atomic nucleus, which is not the process occurring when ice melts.

4. What is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body responsible for draining lymph from most of the body called?

• A. Jugular vein
• B. Thoracic duct
• C. Subclavian vein
• D. Aorta

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thoracic duct. The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body and is responsible for draining lymph from most of the body. The jugular vein, subclavian vein, and aorta are not lymphatic vessels responsible for draining lymph. The jugular vein and subclavian vein are blood vessels, while the aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart. Understanding the role and anatomy of the lymphatic system is crucial for comprehending the body's immune response and fluid balance.

5. Which process involves the body's natural defense against inhaled dust and allergens?

• A. Cellular respiration
• B. Gas exchange
• C. Ciliary action
• D. Bronchoconstriction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ciliary action refers to the process where tiny hair-like structures called cilia in the respiratory tract help to sweep away inhaled dust and allergens, preventing them from entering deeper into the lungs. This is a crucial part of the body's natural defense mechanism against respiratory irritants. Cellular respiration (A) is the process where cells use oxygen to produce energy, not a defense mechanism against inhaled particles. Gas exchange (B) involves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, not specifically targeting inhaled dust and allergens. Bronchoconstriction (D) is the narrowing of the airways in response to irritants or allergens, which can lead to breathing difficulties, but it is not the primary defense mechanism against these particles.

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