HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023
1. What is the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?
- A. To secrete digestive enzymes
- B. To absorb nutrients
- C. To break down food
- D. To absorb water
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb nutrients. The small intestine's main role in the digestive system is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It has specialized structures, such as villi and microvilli, that increase its surface area for efficient absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Choice A is incorrect because the small intestine does not primarily secrete digestive enzymes; that role is mainly carried out by the pancreas and other digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect because the small intestine primarily absorbs nutrients rather than breaking down food. Choice D is incorrect because the absorption of water primarily occurs in the large intestine, not the small intestine.
2. What is the primary function of the heart?
- A. To filter blood
- B. To transport oxygen and nutrients
- C. To remove waste
- D. To regulate temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the heart is to pump oxygenated blood and nutrients throughout the body, supplying cells with vital substances. Choice A is incorrect as the kidneys are responsible for filtering blood. Choice C is incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by organs like the kidneys and liver. Choice D is incorrect as regulating body temperature is mainly controlled by mechanisms such as sweating and shivering, not the heart.
3. What is the primary function of the immune system?
- A. To transport oxygen
- B. To fight infections
- C. To produce energy
- D. To regulate body temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the immune system is to fight infections. It identifies and destroys pathogens like bacteria and viruses, protecting the body from harmful substances. While oxygen transportation is carried out by the respiratory system, energy production is mainly the role of the metabolic system, and body temperature regulation is managed by the thermoregulatory system. These functions are separate from the immune system's primary role of defending the body against infections.
4. Which structure is part of both the male reproductive system and the urinary system?
- A. Bladder
- B. Urethra
- C. Prostate
- D. Seminal Vesicle
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The urethra is the correct answer because it is a tube that is part of both the male reproductive system and the urinary system. It allows urine to pass out of the body as part of the urinary system and also transports semen as part of the male reproductive system. The bladder (Choice A) is solely part of the urinary system, storing urine. The prostate (Choice C) is part of the male reproductive system, secreting fluids that nourish and protect sperm. The seminal vesicle (Choice D) is also part of the male reproductive system, producing seminal fluid that mixes with sperm to form semen.
5. What is the function of the large intestine in the digestive system?
- A. To secrete digestive enzymes
- B. To absorb water and form solid waste
- C. To produce bile
- D. To transport nutrients
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The large intestine's primary function is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter that enters it from the small intestine. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste (feces) by compacting the material and preparing it for excretion. The large intestine does not secrete digestive enzymes, produce bile, or transport nutrients. Therefore, option B, 'To absorb water and form solid waste,' is the correct function of the large intestine in the digestive system.
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