Nursing Elites

1. Calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels, is produced by the:

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Parathyroid gland
• C. Thymus gland
• D. Adrenal gland

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It helps regulate calcium levels in the body by inhibiting the breakdown of bone and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. The parathyroid gland produces parathyroid hormone (PTH), which works in opposition to calcitonin to regulate calcium levels. The thymus gland is involved in the development of the immune system, and the adrenal gland produces hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland as it specifically secretes calcitonin for calcium regulation.

2. What is the process of removing waste products from the cell called?

• A. Exocytosis
• B. Endocytosis
• C. Phagocytosis
• D. Pinocytosis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A) Exocytosis is the process by which cells expel waste products or other substances by fusing a vesicle containing the waste with the cell membrane, releasing its contents outside the cell. This process is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis by removing waste products from the cell. B) Endocytosis is the process by which cells take in substances by engulfing them in a vesicle formed from the cell membrane. This process is the opposite of exocytosis and is used to bring substances into the cell. C) Phagocytosis is a type of endocytosis where cells engulf solid particles or other cells to form a vesicle called a phagosome. This process is used by immune cells to engulf and destroy pathogens. D) Pinocytosis is a type of endocytosis where cells engulf fluids and dissolved solutes. This process allows cells to take in nutrients.

3. How does sunscreen protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays?

• A. By reflecting UV rays away from the skin
• B. By absorbing UV rays and converting them to heat
• C. By blocking UV rays completely
• D. By stimulating melanin production

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Sunscreen works by absorbing UV rays and converting them to heat. This mechanism helps to prevent the UV rays from penetrating the skin and causing damage such as sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Reflecting UV rays away from the skin (option A) is not the primary function of sunscreen. While sunscreen does block UV rays, it does not do so completely (option C) as some UV rays may still penetrate the skin. Sunscreen does not stimulate melanin production (option D) as a means of protecting the skin from UV rays.

4. The adrenal cortex produces a group of steroid hormones called corticosteroids. What is a MAJOR function of corticosteroids?

• A. Regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels
• B. Control blood pressure and electrolyte balance
• C. Stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response
• D. Promote growth and development during puberty

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal cortex, primarily function to control blood pressure and electrolyte balance. One of the key corticosteroids, aldosterone, plays a crucial role in regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. This regulation is essential for maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because corticosteroids do not primarily regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response, or promote growth and development during puberty. While corticosteroids can have effects on insulin sensitivity, immune response, and growth, their major role is in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

5. What is the most basic unit of structure in living things?

• A. Cell
• B. Organelle
• C. Oxygen
• D. Pigment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell is indeed the most basic unit of life, forming the foundation of all living organisms. Cells are the building blocks of all living things, containing organelles that perform specific functions. While oxygen is essential for life, it is not a structural unit. Similarly, pigment is a component found within cells but is not the fundamental unit of structure. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Cell.'

Similar Questions