if you wanted to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity which plane would you use

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test

1. Which plane would you use to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity?

A. Sagittal
B. Transverse
C. Frontal
D. Coronal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The transverse plane, also known as the horizontal plane, runs horizontally from left to right, dividing the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. This plane is ideal for separating the abdominal cavity (located below) from the thoracic cavity (located above). The sagittal plane (choice A) divides the body into left and right portions, the frontal plane (choice C) divides the body into front and back portions, and the coronal plane (choice D) is another term for the frontal plane. Therefore, when looking to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity, the transverse plane is the most appropriate choice.

2. Which might be a result of stenosis, or narrowing of a heart valve?

A. Abdominal pain
B. Blood clots
C. Edema (swelling) in organs
D. Irregular heartbeat

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Stenosis, or narrowing of a heart valve, restricts blood flow through the valve, leading to changes in the heart's normal rhythm. This alteration can result in an irregular heartbeat, making it a common consequence of heart valve stenosis. Abdominal pain, blood clots, and organ swelling are not typically associated with stenosis of a heart valve.

3. Which of the following are considered normal values for the measure of a person’s pulse and blood pressure?

A. 55 beats per minute and 75 over 60 mm Hg
B. 72 beats per minute and 120 over 80 mm Hg
C. 100 beats per minute and 140 over 100 mm Hg
D. 160 beats per minute and 100 over 70 mm Hg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Normal values for pulse rate typically range between 60 to 100 beats per minute, while normal blood pressure values are usually around 120/80 mm Hg. Option B falls within these normal ranges for both pulse rate and blood pressure, making it the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D have either pulse rate, blood pressure, or both values outside the normal ranges, making them incorrect.

4. Which of the following is known as the production of red blood cells?

A. Thrombopoiesis
B. Erythropoiesis
C. Hematopoiesis
D. Phagocytosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Erythropoiesis specifically refers to the process of producing red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bone marrow. Hematopoiesis is the broader term that encompasses the production of all types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Phagocytosis is the process by which cells engulf and digest particles, while thrombopoiesis is the production of platelets. Therefore, the correct answer is B as it directly relates to the production of red blood cells.

5. Which of the following organs is involved in the immune system?

A. Heart
B. Bronchi
C. Appendix
D. Esophagus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The appendix is involved in the immune system as it is believed to play a role in maintaining and protecting beneficial gut bacteria, especially after gastrointestinal illnesses. This helps in restoring the balance of intestinal bacteria crucial for immune function. The heart (Choice A), bronchi (Choice B), and esophagus (Choice D) are not directly involved in the immune system's functions. The heart pumps blood, the bronchi are part of the respiratory system, and the esophagus is responsible for transporting food to the stomach.