Nursing Elites

1. How do the intercostal muscles between the ribs assist with respiration?

• A. By protecting the delicate bronchioles and alveoli
• B. By signaling a decrease in intra-alveolar pressure
• C. By enlarging and reducing the space in the thorax
• D. By maintaining a medial separation between pleurae

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a crucial role in respiration by aiding in the enlargement and reduction of the space in the thorax. During inspiration, these muscles contract, lifting the rib cage, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows the lungs to expand and fill with air. This process directly relates to the expansion of the thorax rather than protecting bronchioles and alveoli (Choice A), signaling intra-alveolar pressure changes (Choice B), or maintaining the separation between pleurae (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.

2. Which hormone is released in response to low blood glucose levels?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Cortisol
• D. Adrenaline

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glucagon is the hormone released in response to low blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels drop, the pancreas secretes glucagon to stimulate the liver to break down glycogen into glucose, increasing blood sugar levels. This helps to restore the body's glucose balance. Insulin, on the other hand, is released in response to high blood glucose levels to lower blood sugar by promoting glucose uptake by cells. Cortisol is a stress hormone, and adrenaline is released in response to stress or danger, not specifically to regulate blood glucose levels.

3. What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

• A. Transport oxygen to cells
• B. Remove carbon dioxide from the body
• C. Produce hormones
• D. Transport nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Remove carbon dioxide from the body. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to return excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream and assist in the body's defense against infections by filtering out harmful pathogens and foreign particles. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen to cells is mainly done by the circulatory system, hormone production is primarily carried out by endocrine glands, and nutrient transport is also a function of the circulatory system and the digestive system, not the lymphatic system.

4. Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?

• A. Cerebellum
• B. Cerebrum
• C. Medulla oblongata
• D. Brainstem

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. Located at the back of the brain, the cerebellum plays a crucial role in controlling balance, coordination, and fine motor movements. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to coordinate voluntary movements and maintain posture. Damage to the cerebellum can result in issues with balance, coordination, and muscle tone. The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and problem-solving, the medulla oblongata controls vital autonomic functions like breathing and heartbeat, and the brainstem serves as a pathway for neural fibers traveling to and from the brain.

5. Where is a gallstone most likely to cause pain?

• A. In the upper right quadrant of the abdomen
• B. In the lower right quadrant of the abdomen
• C. In the umbilical region
• D. Along the pelvic girdle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A gallstone is most likely to cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This specific area corresponds to the location of the gallbladder. When a gallstone blocks the flow of bile from the gallbladder, it can lead to inflammation and pain in this region. The pain may also radiate to the back or right shoulder blade due to referred pain patterns associated with gallbladder issues. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because gallstone pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, not the lower right quadrant, umbilical region, or along the pelvic girdle.

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