Nursing Elites

1. What is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system?

• A. Neuron
• B. Astrocyte
• C. Neurotransmitter
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A neuron is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that provide support and nourishment to neurons but do not participate in signal transmission. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that facilitate signal transmission between neurons, and synapses are the specific junctions where these signals are transmitted. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Neuron' as it is the primary cell involved in transmitting information in the nervous system.

2. What is the main consequence of a malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones?

• A. Increased energy levels and weight loss
• B. Decreased heart rate and body temperature
• C. Enhanced muscle growth and bone development
• D. Faster metabolism and heightened alertness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased heart rate and body temperature. A malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones leads to hypothyroidism, resulting in decreased metabolic activity. This reduction in metabolic rate can cause a decreased heart rate and lower body temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hypothyroidism typically manifests as symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, bradycardia, and decreased body temperature, rather than increased energy levels, enhanced muscle growth, faster metabolism, or heightened alertness.

3. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'rest and digest' response, promoting relaxation and conservation of energy?

• A. Sympathetic nervous system
• B. Parasympathetic nervous system
• C. Somatic nervous system
• D. Central nervous system

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the 'rest and digest' response, promoting relaxation, conserving energy, and facilitating activities like digestion and lowering heart rate. The sympathetic nervous system, which is not the correct answer, triggers the 'fight or flight' response, preparing the body for stressful situations by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and releasing adrenaline. The somatic nervous system (choice C) controls voluntary movements, not the autonomic functions related to 'rest and digest.' The central nervous system (choice D) includes the brain and spinal cord and is not specifically involved in the autonomic regulation of bodily functions like the 'rest and digest' response.

4. Which of the following glands is NOT directly controlled by the pituitary gland?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Adrenal glands
• C. Pancreas (Islets of Langerhans)
• D. Parathyroid glands

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, regulates various endocrine glands by releasing specific hormones. The thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and parathyroid glands are directly controlled by the pituitary gland through hormones like thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) respectively. However, the pancreas, particularly the Islets of Langerhans, is not directly influenced by the pituitary gland. The pancreas is mainly governed by blood glucose levels and hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Choice A, the thyroid gland, is controlled by the pituitary gland through TSH. Choice B, the adrenal glands, are regulated by the pituitary gland via ACTH. Choice D, the parathyroid glands, are under the direct control of the pituitary gland through PTH.

5. Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of evolution?

• A. Natural selection
• B. Genetic drift
• C. Lamarckism
• D. Mutation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Natural selection is a mechanism of evolution where individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to the next generation. B) Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution that occurs due to random changes in allele frequencies in a population. C) Lamarckism, also known as the inheritance of acquired characteristics, is a discredited theory that suggests organisms can pass on traits acquired during their lifetime to their offspring. This mechanism has been largely rejected by the scientific community. D) Mutation is a mechanism of evolution that introduces new genetic variation into a population, which can lead to the emergence of new traits and adaptations over time.

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