Nursing Elites

1. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. What is its primary function?

• A. Regulate blood pressure
• B. Stimulate the digestive system
• C. Control sleep-wake cycles
• D. Maintain bone density

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Control sleep-wake cycles.' Melatonin is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating the body's sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. The pineal gland releases melatonin in response to darkness, helping to signal to the body that it is time to sleep. By influencing the timing and quality of sleep, melatonin helps maintain a healthy sleep pattern and overall well-being. While blood pressure, digestive system stimulation, and bone density are important functions in the body, melatonin's primary function is to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

2. What is the primary function of the coronary arteries in the cardiovascular system?

• A. Carry oxygenated blood to the heart muscle
• B. Carry deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle
• C. Pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation
• D. Regulate blood pressure in the systemic circulation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the coronary arteries in the cardiovascular system is to carry oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. These arteries supply the heart muscle with the necessary oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. Without adequate blood flow through the coronary arteries, the heart muscle can become deprived of oxygen, leading to conditions like angina or even a heart attack. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the function of the coronary arteries. Option B is incorrect because the coronary arteries carry oxygenated blood, not deoxygenated blood. Option C is incorrect because the pulmonary arteries, not the coronary arteries, carry blood to the lungs for oxygenation. Option D is incorrect because the regulation of blood pressure in the systemic circulation is primarily controlled by mechanisms such as the kidneys and the autonomic nervous system, not the coronary arteries.

3. Which statement correctly describes the concept of ionization energy?

• A. The energy required to remove an electron from an outermost shell.
• B. The energy released when an electron bonds with an atom.
• C. The total energy possessed by all electrons in an atom.
• D. The energy needed to change an atom's nucleus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The energy required to remove an electron from an outermost shell. Ionization energy varies depending on the element and electron configuration, indicating its difficulty to lose electrons and influencing its reactivity.

4. Which vitamin plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the small intestine?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the small intestine because it helps regulate the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. When vitamin D is present, it stimulates the production of proteins that facilitate the absorption of calcium from the intestine into the bloodstream. Without adequate levels of vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium efficiently, which can lead to weakened bones and other health issues. While vitamins A, C, and E are important for various functions in the body, they do not directly impact calcium absorption in the same way that vitamin D does.

5. What enzyme plays a key role in breaking down carbohydrates in the small intestine?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Lipase
• C. Amylase
• D. Trypsin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Amylase, produced by the pancreas and salivary glands, breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars like glucose.

6. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition affecting blood sugar control. What is the main type of hormone deficiency associated with type 1 diabetes?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Insulin." In type 1 diabetes, the main type of hormone deficiency is insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels by helping cells absorb glucose. In individuals with type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a deficiency of insulin. This results in uncontrolled high blood sugar levels, which can have serious consequences if not managed properly. Glucagon, estrogen, and testosterone do not play a primary role in the hormone deficiency associated with type 1 diabetes.

Similar Questions