Nursing Elites

1. What are organisms that break down dead organisms and return nutrients to the environment called?

• A. Producers
• B. Decomposers
• C. Consumers
• D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are essential organisms in the ecosystem as they break down dead organisms and organic matter, such as bacteria, fungi, and some insects. By decomposing complex organic materials into simpler forms, they release nutrients back into the environment for other organisms to utilize. Producers (option A) are organisms that generate their own food through photosynthesis; consumers (option C) are organisms that feed on other organisms for energy, and parasites (option D) are organisms that live on or in another organism, benefiting at the host's expense rather than breaking down dead organisms for nutrient recycling.

2. Which of the following body systems controls fluid loss, protects deep tissues, and synthesizes vitamin D?

• A. The skeletal system
• B. The muscular system
• C. The lymphatic system
• D. The integumentary system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The integumentary system is responsible for controlling fluid loss through sweat, protecting deep tissues as the body's first line of defense, and synthesizing vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. The skin, hair, nails, and associated glands make up the integumentary system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health. The skeletal system (Choice A) provides structural support and protection for internal organs but does not directly control fluid loss, protect deep tissues, or synthesize vitamin D. The muscular system (Choice B) is responsible for movement and stability but is not involved in the functions described. The lymphatic system (Choice C) is primarily responsible for immunity and fluid balance, not the specific functions mentioned in the question.

3. What is the function of the rib cage in the human body?

• A. To protect the digestive organs
• B. To protect the lungs and heart
• C. To support movement
• D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The rib cage plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs, specifically the lungs and heart, from external injuries. Choice A is incorrect because the rib cage does not primarily protect the digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect as the primary function of the rib cage is not to support movement, but to protect internal organs. Choice D is incorrect as regulating body temperature is not a function typically associated with the rib cage.

4. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine. What enzyme breaks down proteins into amino acids?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Lipase
• C. Amylase
• D. Trypsin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Trypsin is the correct enzyme that breaks down proteins into amino acids. It is produced by the pancreas and released into the small intestine to facilitate protein digestion. Pepsin is an enzyme from the stomach that also breaks down proteins, amylase targets carbohydrates, and lipase works on fats. In this context, since the question specifies the pancreas and small intestine, the correct answer is Trypsin as it is the pancreatic enzyme responsible for protein breakdown in the small intestine.

5. What is the scientific term for inflammation of the bronchi, often associated with a cough and mucus production?

• A. Pneumonia
• B. Bronchitis
• C. Emphysema
• D. Pleurisy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bronchitis is the correct answer. It is the inflammation of the bronchi, which are the air passages in the lungs. Bronchitis typically presents with symptoms such as a persistent cough, mucus production, and sometimes difficulty breathing. Pneumonia, on the other hand, is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs, not specifically the bronchi. Emphysema is a chronic lung condition characterized by the gradual destruction of the air sacs in the lungs, resulting in breathing difficulties. Pleurisy refers to inflammation of the pleura, the lining around the lungs and chest cavity, causing chest pain when breathing or coughing.

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