Nursing Elites

1. Which structure of the nervous system carries an action potential in the direction of a synapse?

• A. Cell body
• B. Axon
• C. Neuron
• D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the axon. The axon is the elongated, threadlike part of a neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body towards other neurons or target cells, such as muscles or glands, in the direction of a synapse. Action potentials travel along the axon as electrical signals to communicate with neighboring cells. The cell body (choice A) contains the nucleus and organelles but does not transmit action potentials. Neuron (choice C) is a broad term that includes the entire nerve cell, not a specific structure. Myelin (choice D) is a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates axons, aiding in the conduction of nerve impulses, but it does not directly carry the action potential towards a synapse.

2. Which hormone is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and is produced by the pancreas?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Testosterone
• D. Estrogen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Insulin is the correct answer. It is the hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose from the blood into cells for energy production or storage. Glucagon, also produced by the pancreas, has the opposite effect of increasing blood sugar levels by promoting the release of stored glucose from the liver. Testosterone and estrogen are sex hormones produced by the testes and ovaries, respectively, and are not directly involved in regulating blood sugar levels.

3. Which part of the brain is responsible for balance and coordination?

• A. Cerebellum
• B. Cerebrum
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Thalamus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. It plays a vital role in balance and coordination by controlling motor functions, precision, and timing of movements. The cerebrum is primarily involved in higher brain functions such as thinking and problem-solving. The hypothalamus regulates essential bodily functions like temperature and hunger, while the thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the brain for processing.

4. Which valve prevents backflow into the atrium when the ventricles contract?

• A. Pulmonary valve
• B. Tricuspid valve
• C. Mitral valve
• D. Aortic valve

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The tricuspid valve (right atrioventricular valve) prevents backflow into the right atrium when the right ventricle contracts. This valve ensures that blood flows in the correct direction, preventing regurgitation into the atrium. The pulmonary valve is responsible for preventing backflow into the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery. The mitral valve prevents backflow into the left atrium, and the aortic valve prevents backflow into the left ventricle from the aorta. Therefore, the correct answer is the tricuspid valve as it specifically addresses the scenario of backflow into the atrium during ventricular contraction.

5. Which of the following bones belongs to the category of long bones?

• A. Femur
• B. Ribs and cranial bones
• C. Sesamoid
• D. Vertebrae and hip bones

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Femur. Long bones are characterized by their elongated shape, with examples including the femur, humerus, and tibia. These bones are essential for support, movement, and bone marrow production. Choice B, 'Ribs and cranial bones,' consists of flat bones, not long bones. Choice C, 'Sesamoid,' refers to small bones embedded within tendons and do not fall under the category of long bones. Choice D, 'Vertebrae and hip bones,' includes irregular bones that provide structural support and protection for vital organs, but they are not classified as long bones.

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