Nursing Elites

1. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. What is its primary function?

• A. Regulate blood pressure
• B. Stimulate the digestive system
• C. Control sleep-wake cycles
• D. Maintain bone density

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Melatonin is primarily known for its role in controlling sleep-wake cycles. It is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, helping signal the body that it is time to sleep. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening and stay elevated throughout the night, promoting sleep. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as melatonin's primary function is not to regulate blood pressure, stimulate the digestive system, or maintain bone density. While melatonin may have some indirect effects on these functions, its main role lies in regulating the circadian rhythm and promoting a restful sleep cycle.

2. A person wakes up with a fever. The body begins its response to locate the origin of the problem and fix it. What type of feedback mechanism is this?

• A. Equal
• B. Negative
• C. Neutral
• D. Positive

Correct answer: B

Rationale: This scenario describes a negative feedback mechanism. When the body detects a fever, it initiates responses to lower the temperature back to normal levels. Negative feedback mechanisms work to counteract changes and maintain homeostasis in the body. Choice A ('Equal') is incorrect as feedback mechanisms aim to restore balance, not maintain an equal state. Choice C ('Neutral') is incorrect as it does not describe the corrective nature of negative feedback. Choice D ('Positive') is incorrect as it would amplify the fever rather than regulate it.

3. What is the function of the stratified cuboidal epithelium lining the salivary glands?

• A. Protection
• B. Gas exchange
• C. Secretion
• D. Absorption

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Secretion. The stratified cuboidal epithelium lining the salivary glands is responsible for secretion. This type of epithelium, made of multiple layers of cube-shaped cells, is specialized for secretion and protection. In the salivary glands, these cells secrete saliva to aid in the digestion process. Choice A, Protection, is incorrect because while the epithelium does provide some level of protection, its primary function in the salivary glands is secretion. Choice B, Gas exchange, is incorrect as the salivary glands are not involved in gas exchange processes. Choice D, Absorption, is also incorrect as the main role of this epithelium in the salivary glands is not absorption but rather secretion of saliva.

4. Which of the following is a risk factor for developing kidney stones?

• A. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• B. Maintaining adequate hydration with water
• C. Having a family history of kidney stones
• D. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Having a family history of kidney stones is a risk factor for developing kidney stones. Genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones due to inherited traits that affect the body's ability to process and excrete certain substances. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (option A) and maintaining adequate hydration with water (option B) are actually recommended strategies to help prevent kidney stones by promoting overall kidney health. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise (option D) can also be beneficial for kidney health by promoting circulation and overall well-being. Therefore, options A, B, and D are not risk factors but rather beneficial for kidney health.

5. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

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