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. Through which part of the digestive system are nutrients absorbed into the bloodstream?

• A. Stomach
• B. Large intestine
• C. Small intestine
• D. Esophagus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site of nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats occurs. The inner lining of the small intestine is covered in tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. Nutrients are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and into the bloodstream to be transported to cells throughout the body. The stomach's main role is to break down food through the action of stomach acids and enzymes but does not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter, and the esophagus is a muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach, without being involved in nutrient absorption.

3. Differentiate between the digestive and respiratory systems.

• A. Mouth
• B. Stomach
• C. Small intestine
• D. Lungs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D - Lungs. The mouth, stomach, and small intestine are all components of the digestive system, which is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients that the body can absorb. On the other hand, the lungs are part of the respiratory system, which facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment through breathing. While the digestive system processes food for energy and nutrients, the respiratory system is primarily focused on the exchange of gases necessary for cellular respiration. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are all organs associated with the digestive system and do not pertain to the respiratory system.

4. Which vitamin plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the small intestine?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the small intestine by enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. This helps in regulating the levels of these minerals in the body, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin A (Choice A) is important for vision and immune function, but it is not directly related to calcium absorption. Vitamin C (Choice B) is primarily known for its role in collagen synthesis and antioxidant functions, not calcium absorption. Vitamin E (Choice D) acts as an antioxidant and is not directly involved in calcium absorption in the small intestine.

5. What is the function of the epiglottis?

• A. Produces saliva
• B. Senses taste
• C. Prevents food from entering the windpipe
• D. Filters blood

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action ensures that food and liquids are directed to the esophagus and down into the stomach, rather than entering the respiratory system, which could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe functions of other structures in the body that are not related to the role of the epiglottis.

Similar Questions