HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. Where does primary peristalsis occur?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Stomach
- C. Nervous system
- D. Small intestine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Primary peristalsis occurs in the esophagus. Peristalsis is the coordinated muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. In the esophagus, primary peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like contractions that push food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the natural and automatic process that occurs to facilitate the movement of food during digestion. The stomach (choice B), nervous system (choice C), and small intestine (choice D) are not the primary sites where peristalsis occurs in the digestive system.
2. Where do nearly all of the gaseous exchanges between air and blood take place in the lungs?
- A. Pleura
- B. Trachea
- C. Bronchioles
- D. Alveoli
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nearly all gaseous exchanges between air and blood take place in the alveoli of the lungs. The walls of the alveoli are thin and surrounded by an extensive network of tiny blood vessels called capillaries. Oxygen from the air diffuses through the alveoli walls and into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide, a waste product, diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled out of the body. This process is essential for respiration and providing oxygen to the body's cells. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Pleura is the membrane surrounding the lungs, trachea is the windpipe that carries air to the lungs, and bronchioles are the smaller air passages in the lungs. However, the primary site for gaseous exchange is the alveoli due to their structure and function.
3. Which hormone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy?
- A. FSH
- B. Estrogen
- C. LH
- D. Progesterone
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Progesterone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy. It promotes the growth of blood vessels and glands in the endometrial lining, making it conducive for implantation and supporting early pregnancy. While estrogen helps in thickening the endometrium, it is progesterone that plays a crucial role in preparing it for pregnancy. FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) is involved in stimulating ovarian follicles, not directly in preparing the endometrium. LH (Luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation but does not primarily prepare the endometrium for pregnancy.
4. The corpus callosum facilitates communication between which brain structures?
- A. the left and right brain
- B. the skeletal and neural systems
- C. the brain and spinal cord
- D. the thalamus and hypothalamus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The corpus callosum is a structure in the brain that enables communication between the two hemispheres. It allows for the transfer of various types of information, such as motor, sensory, and cognitive, between the left and right brain hemispheres, aiding in overall brain function and integration of tasks. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not involve the specific brain structures connected by the corpus callosum.
5. Where is a gallstone most likely to cause pain?
- A. In the upper right quadrant of the abdomen
- B. In the lower right quadrant of the abdomen
- C. In the umbilical region
- D. Along the pelvic girdle
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A gallstone is most likely to cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This specific area corresponds to the location of the gallbladder. When a gallstone blocks the flow of bile from the gallbladder, it can lead to inflammation and pain in this region. The pain may also radiate to the back or right shoulder blade due to referred pain patterns associated with gallbladder issues. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because gallstone pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, not the lower right quadrant, umbilical region, or along the pelvic girdle.
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