Nursing Elites

1. Which part of the brainstem controls heart rate and breathing?

• A. Medulla oblongata
• B. Pons
• C. Midbrain
• D. Thalamus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is a critical part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It houses centers that oversee these involuntary processes, making it the correct answer. The pons, midbrain, and thalamus do not primarily control heart rate and breathing, thus making them incorrect choices for this question.

2. What is the primary function of B cells in the immune system?

• A. Directly attacking and engulfing pathogens
• B. Producing antibodies specific to a pathogen
• C. Destroying infected body cells
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: B cells are a type of white blood cell that primarily functions by producing antibodies specific to a pathogen. These antibodies play a crucial role in marking pathogens for destruction by other immune cells. While B cells are essential for the immune response, they do not directly attack and engulf pathogens or destroy infected body cells. These functions are carried out by other immune cells like macrophages and cytotoxic T cells. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as it accurately reflects the primary role of B cells in the immune system.

3. Which molecule is responsible for storing and providing a quick source of energy during short bursts of intense physical activity, such as weightlifting or sprinting?

• A. ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)
• B. Glucose
• C. Myoglobin
• D. Lactic Acid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the molecule responsible for storing and providing a quick source of energy during short bursts of intense physical activity like weightlifting or sprinting. ATP is broken down to release energy rapidly when muscles need quick, intense efforts. Glucose is a source of energy but must be converted into ATP before it can be used by muscles. Myoglobin is a protein that stores oxygen in muscle cells and does not directly provide energy. Lactic acid is produced during intense exercise but is not the primary molecule responsible for providing quick energy during short bursts of intense physical activities.

4. What is the scientific term for the windpipe, a tube that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi?

• A. Pharynx
• B. Trachea
• C. Epiglottis
• D. Bronchiole

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The trachea is the correct scientific term for the windpipe, a tube that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi. It is an essential part of the respiratory system, enabling the passage of air to and from the lungs. The pharynx is the region behind the mouth and nasal cavity, acting as a passageway for air and food. The epiglottis is a cartilage flap that shields the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. Bronchioles are smaller airways that branch off from the bronchi within the lungs, further dividing and distributing air within the lungs.

5. What happens during expiration?

• A. The diaphragm contracts and the thoracic cavity expands.
• B. The diaphragm relaxes and the thoracic cavity contracts.
• C. The thoracic cavity expands, increasing pressure.
• D. The diaphragm relaxes and moves upward.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. During expiration, the diaphragm relaxes, causing the thoracic cavity to contract. As the thoracic cavity decreases in size, the pressure inside the lungs increases, leading to air flowing out of the lungs. This process helps to expel carbon dioxide-rich air from the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. In choice A, the diaphragm contracting and the thoracic cavity expanding describes inspiration, not expiration. Choice C is incorrect because during expiration, the thoracic cavity actually decreases in size. Choice D is incorrect as the diaphragm moving upward is not a typical movement associated with expiration.

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