which organ system is largely responsible for controlling stress

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

1. Which organ system is largely responsible for controlling stress?

A. The endocrine system
B. The digestive system
C. The lymphatic system
D. The respiratory system

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The endocrine system is largely responsible for controlling stress through the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones help regulate the body's response to stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy production. The endocrine system plays a crucial role in the body's stress response and helps the body adapt to and cope with stressful situations. The digestive system (Choice B) is primarily responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, not controlling stress. The lymphatic system (Choice C) is responsible for immune function and maintaining fluid balance, not controlling stress. The respiratory system (Choice D) is responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, not controlling stress.

2. Which of the following statements is anatomically correct?

A. The knee is distal to the ankle.
B. The heart is inferior to the diaphragm.
C. The hip is proximal to the knee.
D. The wrist is proximal to the elbow.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'proximal' refers to a body part being closer to the center of the body or a point of reference. In this case, the hip is closer to the center of the body compared to the knee, which makes the statement anatomically correct. Choice A is incorrect as the knee is proximal to the ankle. Choice B is incorrect as the heart is superior to the diaphragm. Choice D is incorrect as the elbow is proximal to the wrist.

3. Which hormone is not produced by the pituitary gland?

A. FSH
B. TRH
C. LH
D. ADH

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) is not produced by the pituitary gland. TRH is actually produced by the hypothalamus and acts on the pituitary gland to stimulate the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). On the other hand, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), and ADH (antidiuretic hormone) are all hormones directly produced by the pituitary gland.

4. 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.

5. Which brain structure is involved in memory formation?

A. Hippocampus
B. Amygdala
C. Cerebellum
D. Medulla oblongata

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The hippocampus is the correct answer. It plays a crucial role in memory formation, particularly in the creation of new memories and their association with learning and emotions. Damage to the hippocampus can result in memory impairments, highlighting its significance in cognitive functions. The amygdala (Choice B) is involved in the processing of emotions, while the cerebellum (Choice C) is primarily associated with motor control and coordination. The medulla oblongata (Choice D) is responsible for vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate regulation, not memory formation.