Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. What is the significance of a healthy gut microbiome?

• A. Production of digestive enzymes
• B. Boosting the immune system and nutrient synthesis
• C. Breakdown of complex carbohydrates
• D. Regulation of appetite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in boosting the immune system by defending against harmful pathogens, synthesizing essential nutrients like vitamins, aiding in the digestion of certain foods, and maintaining overall gut health. While the gut microbiome does contribute to the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and regulation of appetite, its significance extends beyond these functions to include immune support and nutrient synthesis. Choice A, production of digestive enzymes, is not the primary significance of a healthy gut microbiome. Choice C is a function related to the gut microbiome but is not the sole significance. Choice D, regulation of appetite, is important but not as central as the immune system support and nutrient synthesis provided by a healthy gut microbiome.

3. What causes varicose veins to occur?

• A. Atherosclerosis.
• B. Incompetent valves.
• C. Loss of skin turgor.
• D. Loss of blood vessel elasticity.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Varicose veins occur when the valves within the veins become incompetent, leading to blood pooling in the veins instead of being efficiently pumped back to the heart. This causes the veins to become enlarged, twisted, and visible under the skin. Factors such as genetics, aging, pregnancy, and prolonged standing or sitting can contribute to the development of incompetent valves and the resulting varicose veins. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in arteries, not veins, and does not directly cause varicose veins. Loss of skin turgor is related to skin elasticity and not a direct cause of varicose veins. Loss of blood vessel elasticity is a general term and does not specifically address the mechanism behind varicose veins, which is primarily due to incompetent valves.

4. What is the term for a solution with a pH value less than 7?

• A. Acidic
• B. Neutral
• C. Alkaline
• D. Basic

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Solutions with a pH less than 7 are classified as acidic. pH values below 7 indicate an acidic solution, which means it has a higher concentration of hydrogen ions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they describe neutral (pH 7), alkaline (pH greater than 7), and basic (another term for alkaline), respectively, which are not applicable to solutions with a pH less than 7.

5. Homologous structures are similar structures in different organisms that have a common evolutionary origin. An example is:

• A. Butterfly wings and bird wings (analogous structures with different origins)
• B. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale
• C. The eyes of an octopus and a human (convergent evolution with different origins)
• D. The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus (unrelated structures)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Homologous structures are similar structures found in different organisms that share a common evolutionary origin. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale are all examples of homologous structures. Despite serving different functions, they share a common underlying structure due to their evolutionary relationship, evidencing a shared ancestry. These structures are modified over time to suit the specific needs of each species. Option A (Butterfly wings and bird wings) refers to analogous structures with different origins. Option C (The eyes of an octopus and a human) describes convergent evolution where traits evolve independently. Option D (The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus) are unrelated structures.

Similar Questions