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. What is the primary function of the large intestine?

• A. Digesting and absorbing nutrients
• B. Storing and mixing food
• C. Breaking down carbohydrates
• D. Absorbing water and electrolytes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water and electrolytes from the indigestible food matter that passes through it. This absorption process aids in the formation of solid waste (feces) before it is excreted from the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the large intestine does not primarily digest and absorb nutrients, store and mix food, or break down carbohydrates. These functions are primarily carried out by the small intestine.

3. Which organ in the human body is responsible for filtering blood and producing urine?

• A. Liver
• B. Kidneys
• C. Pancreas
• D. Heart

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Kidneys. The kidneys are vital organs in the human body responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products and excess substances, producing urine as a result. The liver plays a role in detoxification and metabolism. The pancreas is involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation. The heart pumps blood throughout the body but does not filter blood or produce urine.

4. What is the tough, fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone?

• A. Fascia
• B. Perimysium
• C. Tendon
• D. Ligament

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tendons are the correct answer as they are the tough, fibrous connective tissues that attach muscle to bone. They play a crucial role in transmitting the forces generated by muscle contraction to the bones, facilitating movement. Fascia surrounds muscles and provides support, perimysium is the connective tissue sheath around muscle fibers, and ligaments connect bone to bone, stabilizing joints, which makes them distinct from tendons.

5. The average life expectancy at birth in the United States at the beginning of the 21st century was about 75 years. The average life expectancy at birth in the middle of the 19th century was only about 40 years. Which of the following factors are likely to have contributed to the longer life expectancy in the 21st century? (Select the one that does not apply)

• A. The human body has evolved to become more resilient to its environment.
• B. There have been numerous advances in medical technology and treatments.
• C. Higher standards of basic cleanliness have helped people avoid illness.
• D. The creation of vaccines has nearly eliminated certain diseases that were once deadly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Medical advances, higher standards of cleanliness, and the creation of vaccines have all significantly contributed to the increase in life expectancy over time. While human evolution plays a role in adaptation to the environment over millennia, it is not a primary factor that has led to the substantial increase in life expectancy within a few centuries. The human body's evolution is a slow process that occurs over generations, while the advancements in medical technology, cleanliness, and vaccines have had a more immediate and direct impact on improving life expectancy.

Similar Questions