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 determines the defining characteristic of an element?

• A. Neutrons in its nucleus
• B. Electrons surrounding the nucleus
• C. Protons in its nucleus
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus, which is referred to as the atomic number. The number of protons uniquely identifies an element. The correct answer is choice C because the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom defines its elemental identity, as different elements have a unique number of protons. Neutrons and electrons do play essential roles in the atom, but they do not determine the defining characteristic of an element. Neutrons contribute to the stability of the nucleus and isotopes of an element, while electrons are involved in chemical bonding and the reactivity of an atom.

3. Which type of symbiosis benefits both organisms from the interaction?

• A. Mutualism
• B. Commensalism
• C. Parasitism
• D. Predation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Mutualism.' Mutualism is a type of symbiosis where both organisms involved benefit from the interaction. This relationship is characterized by cooperation and mutual support, leading to advantages for both parties. In mutualistic relationships, each organism provides something that the other needs, resulting in a mutually beneficial outcome. In contrast, 'Commensalism' (choice B) involves one organism benefiting while the other is unaffected, 'Parasitism' (choice C) benefits one organism at the expense of the other, and 'Predation' (choice D) benefits the predator while harming the prey. Examples of mutualism include the relationship between bees and flowers (pollination) and the partnership between nitrogen-fixing bacteria and leguminous plants.

4. Fill in the blanks in the following sentence: Enzymes are ________ molecules that serve as _______ for certain biological reactions.

• A. complex; suppressors
• B. acidic; triggers
• C. small; targets
• D. large; catalysts

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Enzymes are large molecules that act as catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reactions to occur. In the context of biological reactions, enzymes function as catalysts, not suppressors, triggers, or targets. The use of 'large' and 'catalysts' accurately describes the nature and role of enzymes in facilitating biological processes.

5. The adrenal glands are part of the

• A. immune system
• B. endocrine system
• C. lymphatic system
• D. respiratory system

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: endocrine system. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system. These small, triangular-shaped glands are located on top of each kidney and are responsible for producing hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and aldosterone. These hormones play a vital role in regulating various body functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the adrenal glands are not part of the immune system, lymphatic system, or respiratory system. While the immune system is involved in protecting the body from infections and diseases, the lymphatic system helps in maintaining fluid balance and immune function, and the respiratory system is responsible for breathing and gas exchange in the body.

Similar Questions