Nursing Elites

1. Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through which of the following structures?

• A. Schwann cell
• B. ganglion
• C. synapse
• D. axon

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through a structure called the synapse. The synapse is a specialized junction where the axon of one neuron meets the dendrite or cell body of another neuron. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron and travel across the synaptic cleft to bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, transmitting the signal between the two neurons. Choice A, Schwann cell, is incorrect as Schwann cells are responsible for producing myelin sheath around axons in the peripheral nervous system, not for transmitting neurotransmitters between neurons. Choice B, ganglion, is incorrect as ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system and do not directly participate in the transmission of chemical messages between neurons. Choice D, axon, is incorrect as the axon is a long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body and towards the axon terminals, where neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, but it is not the structure across which neurotransmitters travel to communicate between neurons.

2. When defending a scientific argument, which technique is most effective?

• A. Citing other scientists who agree with your argument.
• B. Showing the results of scientific experiments that support your argument.
• C. Describing your scientific credentials, education, and past accomplishments.
• D. Pointing out that no one has come up with a proven alternative explanation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective technique when defending a scientific argument is to show the results of scientific experiments that support your argument. In the realm of science, evidence-based support is crucial. By presenting concrete data and experimental results, you provide a convincing and reliable foundation for your argument. This method allows others to review, replicate, and verify the findings, thus strengthening the credibility of your position. Choices A, C, and D are not as effective as choice B because citing other scientists who agree with your argument (Choice A) may not carry the same weight as empirical evidence, describing your scientific credentials, education, and past accomplishments (Choice C) may not directly address the validity of your argument, and pointing out that no one has come up with a proven alternative explanation (Choice D) does not provide direct evidence supporting your argument.

3. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tough connective tissues called

• A. Ligaments
• B. Tendons
• C. Cartilage
• D. Fascia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tough connective tissues called tendons. Tendons are strong, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones, allowing for movement and stability in the body. Ligaments (option A) connect bones to other bones, not muscles to bones. Cartilage (option C) is firm and flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body, but it does not attach muscles to bones. Fascia (option D) is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, providing support and protection, but it does not directly attach muscles to bones.

4. Which muscle causes a joint to bend?

• A. Cardiac
• B. Extension
• C. Flexor
• D. Smooth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Flexor. A flexor muscle contracts to bend a joint, such as bending the elbow or knee. Flexor muscles are responsible for flexing or bending a joint, while extensor muscles are responsible for extending or straightening a joint. Choice A, Cardiac, is incorrect as cardiac muscle is found in the heart and is responsible for pumping blood. Choice B, Extension, is incorrect as extension refers to the straightening or extending movement of a joint, which is opposite to bending. Choice D, Smooth, is incorrect as smooth muscles are involuntary muscles found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels, not directly responsible for bending joints.

5. A pediatrician notes that an infant's cartilage is disappearing and being replaced by bone. What process has the doctor observed?

• A. Mineralization
• B. Ossification
• C. Osteoporosis
• D. Calcification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The doctor has observed the process of ossification. Ossification is the natural process where cartilage in the body is replaced by bone. This process takes place during fetal development, growth, and bone fracture healing. Ossification involves the formation of bone tissue by depositing minerals like calcium and phosphorus within the cartilage matrix, leading to the development of a bone structure. Choice A, mineralization, refers to the process of forming mineral deposits in tissues, but it does not involve the replacement of cartilage by bone. Choice C, osteoporosis, is a condition characterized by bone density loss and increased fragility, not the natural process of cartilage replacement by bone. Choice D, calcification, is the process of deposition of calcium salts in various tissues, but it does not specifically involve the replacement of cartilage by bone as in ossification.

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