primary peristalsis occurs in the

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. Which system does the gall bladder belong to?

A. endocrine system
B. urinary system
C. digestive system
D. nervous system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The gall bladder is part of the digestive system. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver and release it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. This process facilitates the breakdown and absorption of fats from the food we consume. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the gall bladder is not associated with the endocrine, urinary, or nervous systems.

3. What is the function of the liver in the body?

A. To filter blood
B. To produce bile and detoxify substances
C. To produce insulin
D. To produce red blood cells

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To produce bile and detoxify substances.' The liver's primary functions include producing bile, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats, and detoxifying harmful substances in the blood. While the liver does play a role in blood filtration, its key functions are related to bile production and detoxification. Choices C and D are incorrect because the liver does not produce insulin (produced by the pancreas) or red blood cells (produced in the bone marrow).

4. Which of the following statements is anatomically correct?

A. The knee is distal to the ankle.
B. The heart is inferior to the diaphragm.
C. The hip is proximal to the knee.
D. The wrist is proximal to the elbow.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'proximal' refers to a body part being closer to the center of the body or a point of reference. In this case, the hip is closer to the center of the body compared to the knee, which makes the statement anatomically correct. Choice A is incorrect as the knee is proximal to the ankle. Choice B is incorrect as the heart is superior to the diaphragm. Choice D is incorrect as the elbow is proximal to the wrist.

5. What is the primary role of the large intestine?

A. To absorb nutrients
B. To absorb water
C. To break down food
D. To secrete digestive enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb water. The primary role of the large intestine is to absorb water from indigestible food matter. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste for excretion. Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, not the large intestine. Breaking down food and secreting digestive enzymes are functions primarily associated with the stomach and small intestine.