Nursing Elites

1. What is the main function of the pancreas?

• A. To store food and break it down into smaller pieces
• B. To absorb nutrients into the bloodstream
• C. To produce enzymes that help digest food
• D. To regulate blood sugar levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the pancreas is to produce digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food. These enzymes are essential for the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. While the pancreas also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels by producing insulin and glucagon, its primary function is to produce enzymes for food digestion. Options A and B are incorrect as the pancreas is not involved in storing food or absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream.

2. What is the difference between a phylum and a class?

• A. Phylums are broader and more general
• B. Classes are broader and more general
• C. They are synonyms, used for the same groups
• D. Phylums are for plants, classes are for animals

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In biological classification, a phylum is a higher taxonomic rank than a class. A phylum is a broader category that encompasses multiple classes within it. It represents a group of organisms sharing a common body plan or evolutionary history. On the other hand, a class is a more specific category within a phylum that includes organisms with similar characteristics. Therefore, phyla are broader and more general compared to classes. Choice B is incorrect because classes are more specific categories within phyla. Choice C is incorrect as phyla and classes are distinct hierarchical levels in taxonomy. Choice D is incorrect because phyla and classes are not restricted to specific types of organisms; they can apply to various organisms across the biological kingdom.

3. What is the main consequence of a malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones?

• A. Increased energy levels and weight loss
• B. Decreased heart rate and body temperature
• C. Enhanced muscle growth and bone development
• D. Faster metabolism and heightened alertness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased heart rate and body temperature. A malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones leads to hypothyroidism, resulting in decreased metabolic activity. This reduction in metabolic rate can cause a decreased heart rate and lower body temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hypothyroidism typically manifests as symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, bradycardia, and decreased body temperature, rather than increased energy levels, enhanced muscle growth, faster metabolism, or heightened alertness.

4. Which part of the brain is responsible for higher brain functions, such as thought and action?

• A. Amygdala
• B. Brain stem
• C. Cerebellum
• D. Cerebrum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The cerebrum is the correct answer as it is responsible for higher brain functions like thought and action. The amygdala (Choice A) is involved in emotions and emotional responses, not higher brain functions. The brain stem (Choice B) controls basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate, not higher brain functions. The cerebellum (Choice C) is mainly responsible for motor control and coordination, not higher brain functions like thought and action.

5. Dendrites are finger-like extensions found on

• A. Muscle cells
• B. Connective tissue cells
• C. Neurons
• D. Epithelial cells

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dendrites are the branched extensions of neurons that receive signals from other neurons and transmit those signals to the cell body. They play a crucial role in the communication process within the nervous system, allowing neurons to communicate with each other and integrate incoming signals to generate responses. The other choices are incorrect because dendrites specifically belong to neurons, not muscle cells, connective tissue cells, or epithelial cells.

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