Nursing Elites

1. The stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, is primarily composed of:

• A. Keratinized dead cells
• B. Melanocytes
• C. Langerhans cells
• D. Merkel cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Keratinized dead cells.' The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and is mainly composed of keratinized dead cells. These cells are flattened, fully keratinized, and provide a protective barrier for the skin against environmental factors such as pathogens, UV radiation, and water loss. Melanocytes (Option B), Langerhans cells (Option C), and Merkel cells (Option D) are all important components of the epidermis but are not the primary constituents of the stratum corneum. Melanocytes produce melanin, Langerhans cells are involved in the immune response, and Merkel cells are associated with the sense of touch.

2. The epiglottis is a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue. What is its role during swallowing?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a crucial anatomical structure that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food aspiration. When we swallow, the epiglottis folds over the trachea, directing food and liquids down the esophagus instead of entering the airway. This action helps to ensure that the food and liquids go to the stomach for digestion and not into the lungs, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious condition. Therefore, option C, 'Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration,' is the correct role of the epiglottis during swallowing.

3. Which term describes the quantity of matter in an object and is measured in kilograms or grams?

• A. Weight
• B. Mass
• C. Volume
• D. Density

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mass is the term that describes the quantity of matter in an object. It is typically measured in kilograms or grams. Weight, on the other hand, is the force of gravity acting on an object and is measured in newtons. Volume is the amount of space an object occupies, typically measured in cubic units such as cubic meters or cubic centimeters. Density is the mass of an object per unit volume and is measured in units such as kilograms per cubic meter.

4. The basic unit of communication in the nervous system is called a:

• A. Neuron
• B. Astrocyte
• C. Neurotransmitter
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The basic unit of communication in the nervous system is a neuron. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. They form complex networks to relay messages throughout the body. Astrocytes are support cells that help maintain the environment around neurons. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons at synapses. A synapse is a junction between two neurons where communication occurs. However, the primary unit responsible for communication in the nervous system is the neuron, making it the correct answer.

5. What is the muscular sac in the female body that nourishes and protects a developing fetus?

• A. Ovary
• B. Fallopian tube
• C. Uterus
• D. Vagina

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Uterus. The uterus is a muscular sac in the female body where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus during pregnancy. It provides nourishment to the developing fetus and protects it throughout gestation. The ovaries produce eggs, the fallopian tubes transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, and the vagina is the canal leading from the uterus to the outside of the body. Therefore, the uterus is the specific organ responsible for nourishing and protecting a developing fetus in the female body.

6. The major site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system is the:

• A. Mouth
• B. Stomach
• C. Small intestine
• D. Large intestine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Small intestine. The small intestine is the major site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is where most of the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food takes place. The small intestine has villi and microvilli that increase its surface area, allowing for efficient absorption of nutrients like sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids into the bloodstream. The mouth is primarily responsible for mechanical digestion through chewing, while the stomach's main function is to break down food with enzymes and acids. The large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, with minimal nutrient absorption.

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