1. Which of the following can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections?

A. Regular exercise
B. Balanced diet
C. Chronic stress
D. Adequate sleep

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system by increasing the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress immune function over time. Prolonged stress can also lead to inflammation, making the body more vulnerable to infections. It is important to manage stress levels through relaxation techniques, exercise, and seeking support to maintain a healthy immune system.

2. Which of the following is NOT a function of the cardiovascular system?

A. Transporting oxygen to cells
B. Maintaining blood pressure
C. Carrying waste products to the kidneys for removal
D. Initiating the immune response

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The cardiovascular system is responsible for transporting oxygen to cells (option A), maintaining blood pressure (option B), and carrying waste products to the kidneys for removal (option C). However, initiating the immune response (option D) is not a function of the cardiovascular system. The immune response is primarily carried out by the immune system, which includes organs like the spleen and lymph nodes. While the cardiovascular system does play a role in immune function by transporting immune cells and antibodies, it is not responsible for initiating the immune response. Therefore, option D is the correct answer.

3. Which of the following substances is typically a good conductor of electricity when dissolved in water?

A. Sugar
B. Sodium chloride
C. Olive oil
D. Oxygen gas

Correct answer: b

Rationale: Ionic compounds like sodium chloride dissociate into ions in water, making the solution conductive. The other choices do not typically conduct electricity in water.

4. Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for developing atherosclerosis?

A. High blood pressure
B. High levels of LDL cholesterol
C. Regular physical activity
D. Smoking

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Regular physical activity is NOT a risk factor for developing atherosclerosis. In fact, engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis by improving cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure, and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. High blood pressure, high levels of LDL cholesterol, and smoking are all known risk factors for atherosclerosis. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, narrowing the passageways and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis. Smoking is harmful to blood vessels, promoting inflammation and the formation of plaque. Therefore, regular physical activity is actually a protective factor against atherosclerosis rather than a risk factor.

5. Which part of the heart generates the QRS complex on an ECG?

A. Sinoatrial node (SA node)
B. Atrioventricular node (AV node)
C. Bundle of His
D. Ventricular muscle cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, ventricular muscle cells. The QRS complex on an ECG represents the depolarization of the ventricles. This electrical activity is generated by the spread of impulses through the bundle branches and Purkinje fibers to the ventricular muscle cells. The SA node (option A) is responsible for initiating the electrical impulse in the heart, but it does not directly generate the QRS complex. The AV node (option B) delays the impulse to allow for proper coordination of atrial and ventricular contractions. The Bundle of His (option C) and its branches facilitate the conduction of the electrical signal from the AV node to the ventricles but do not generate the QRS complex directly.

6. An IV bag contains 500ml of saline solution and needs to be infused over 4 hours. What is the flow rate in drops per minute, assuming 20 drops per milliliter?

A. 12.5 drops/min
B. 25 drops/min
C. 50 drops/min
D. 100 drops/min

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Calculate the total volume in drops (500ml * 20 drops/ml = 10,000 drops). Divide this by the infusion time in minutes (4 hours * 60 minutes/hour = 240 minutes) to get the flow rate.