bradycardia refers to a heart rate that is

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What does bradycardia refer to in terms of heart rate?

A. Normal (60-100 bpm)
B. Slightly elevated (100-120 bpm)
C. Significantly elevated (>120 bpm)
D. Abnormally slow (<60 bpm)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Bradycardia refers to an abnormally slow heart rate, typically defined as less than 60 beats per minute. This condition can result in inadequate blood flow to meet the body's demands. It is crucial to distinguish between bradycardia and tachycardia, which is a fast heart rate, as they require different management strategies. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they describe normal, slightly elevated, and significantly elevated heart rates, respectively, rather than an abnormally slow heart rate characteristic of bradycardia. Recognizing bradycardia is essential for appropriate evaluation and intervention in clinical settings.

2. What are the tiny contractile units within muscle cells called?

A. Myocytes
B. Myofibrils
C. Sarcomeres
D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the smallest contractile units within muscle cells. They consist of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which interact to produce muscle contractions. Myocytes are the entire muscle cells, myofibrils are bundles of protein filaments found within muscle cells, and tendons are tough connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. Therefore, sarcomeres specifically represent the contractile units responsible for muscle contraction, making them the correct answer in this context.

3. What is the role of the diaphragm in respiration?

A. To regulate air pressure in the lungs
B. To contract and expand the lungs
C. To store oxygen
D. To break down carbon dioxide

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and expanding the lungs. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, creating more space in the chest cavity and allowing the lungs to expand. This expansion leads to a decrease in pressure inside the lungs, causing air to rush in. When the diaphragm relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the space in the chest cavity and causing the lungs to deflate. This action increases the pressure in the lungs, leading to air being pushed out. Therefore, the diaphragm's main function is to facilitate the inhalation and exhalation of air by contracting and expanding the lungs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the diaphragm's primary function is not to regulate air pressure in the lungs, store oxygen, or break down carbon dioxide. Instead, its main purpose is to aid in the mechanical process of breathing.

4. 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: Melatonin is primarily known for its role in controlling sleep-wake cycles. It is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, helping signal the body that it is time to sleep. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening and stay elevated throughout the night, promoting sleep. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as melatonin's primary function is not to regulate blood pressure, stimulate the digestive system, or maintain bone density. While melatonin may have some indirect effects on these functions, its main role lies in regulating the circadian rhythm and promoting a restful sleep cycle.