Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. What is the fatty substance that coats axons to insulate, protect, and speed up impulses?

• A. Myelin
• B. Dendrite
• C. Neuron
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Myelin.' Myelin is a fatty substance that functions as an insulator for axons, providing protection and enhancing the speed of electrical impulses along neurons. This insulation is essential for ensuring efficient and rapid communication within the nervous system. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Dendrites are branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals, neurons are the basic building blocks of the nervous system that transmit information, and synapses are the junctions between neurons where communication occurs.

3. Which of the following stimulates adaptive immunity?

• A. Peptides
• B. Phagocytes
• C. Prions
• D. Platelets

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prions. Prions are infectious proteins that can stimulate an adaptive immune response by triggering the production of specific antibodies. Peptides are fragments of proteins and can be processed and presented by antigen-presenting cells to activate T cells, which play a role in adaptive immunity. Phagocytes, such as macrophages, are part of the innate immune system and are involved in engulfing and destroying pathogens, but they do not directly stimulate adaptive immunity. Platelets are primarily involved in blood clotting and are not directly related to stimulating adaptive immunity.

4. What is the process of a fertilized egg attaching itself to the uterine lining called?

• A. Ovulation
• B. Implantation
• C. Parturition
• D. Menstruation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Implantation is the correct answer. It is the process in which a fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine lining, where it will develop into an embryo and eventually a fetus. Ovulation, on the other hand, is the release of an egg from the ovary. Parturition refers to the process of giving birth, while menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining if fertilization does not occur. Therefore, the process described in the question specifically pertains to implantation.

5. What is the name of the condition characterized by swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid?

• A. Anemia
• B. Edema
• C. Hypertension
• D. Diabetes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Edema is the condition characterized by swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid. It occurs when excess fluid is trapped in the body's tissues. Anemia (A) is a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, leading to a reduced ability to carry oxygen in the blood. Hypertension (C) is high blood pressure, a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. Diabetes (D) is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels, either due to insufficient insulin production or the body's resistance to insulin, leading to various complications.

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