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. Which structure, located between the pons and the spinal cord, plays a crucial role in coordinating movements, maintaining balance, and posture?

• A. Thalamus
• B. Medulla oblongata
• C. Cerebellum
• D. Hypothalamus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. The cerebellum, located between the pons and the spinal cord, is responsible for coordinating movements, maintaining balance, and posture. The thalamus functions in relaying sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex, the medulla oblongata controls vital autonomic functions such as breathing and heart rate, and the hypothalamus regulates various bodily functions like temperature and hunger. Therefore, the cerebellum is the structure that specifically handles coordination, balance, and posture.

3. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of lactose intolerance?

• A. Gas
• B. Bloating
• C. Diarrhea
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Gas: Gas is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not properly digested, it can ferment in the colon, leading to the production of gas. B) Bloating: Bloating is another common symptom of lactose intolerance. The buildup of gas in the digestive system can cause bloating and discomfort. C) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not broken down in the small intestine, it can draw excess water into the colon, resulting in diarrhea. D) Nausea: Nausea is not a common symptom of lactose intolerance. While some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort or cramps, nausea is not typically associated with lactose intolerance.

4. What is the primary function of nephrons?

• A. Store urine
• B. Filter blood and remove waste products
• C. Produce hormones
• D. Control blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nephrons are the functional units of the kidneys responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products, excess ions, and water. This process leads to the formation of urine, aiding in maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. The primary function of nephrons is not to store urine but to filter blood and eliminate waste products. Choice C, 'Produce hormones,' is incorrect as nephrons primarily focus on filtration rather than hormone production. Choice D, 'Control blood pressure,' is also incorrect as while the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure, it is not the primary function of nephrons within the kidneys.

5. Which of the following best describes eosinophils?

• A. A type of granulocyte that secretes histamine to stimulate the inflammatory response.
• B. The most abundant type of white blood cell that secretes substances toxic to pathogens.
• C. A type of granulocyte found under mucous membranes that defends against multicellular parasites.
• D. A circulating granulocyte with high phagocytic activity and aggressiveness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Eosinophils are best described as a type of granulocyte found under mucous membranes that defends against multicellular parasites. They release toxic substances to combat parasitic infections and play a significant role in allergic reactions and asthma. Histamine secretion to stimulate inflammation is more characteristic of basophils, while high phagocytic activity and aggressiveness are features of neutrophils, not eosinophils. Describing eosinophils as the most abundant type of white blood cell that secretes toxic substances to pathogens is inaccurate since eosinophils specifically target multicellular parasites, not a broad range of pathogens.

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