Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is not a component of the central nervous system?

• A. Brain
• B. Heart
• C. Retina
• D. Spinal cord

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The central nervous system comprises the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and transmitting information. The retina, though part of the eye, is an extension of the central nervous system. However, the heart is part of the circulatory system, responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. Therefore, the correct answer is the heart as it is not a component of the central nervous system.

2. Which hormone is responsible for the regulation of calcium levels in the blood?

• A. Insulin
• B. Parathyroid hormone
• C. Cortisol
• D. Melatonin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Parathyroid hormone, produced by the parathyroid glands, is responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood. It achieves this by increasing calcium absorption in the intestines and kidneys, thus maintaining appropriate calcium levels in the bloodstream. Insulin is involved in glucose metabolism, not calcium regulation. Cortisol is a stress hormone that affects various body functions but not calcium levels. Melatonin is responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle, not calcium levels.

3. What is the term for red blood cell production?

• A. Hematopoiesis
• B. Erythropoiesis
• C. Phagocytosis
• D. Thrombopoiesis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for red blood cell production is erythropoiesis. This process specifically refers to the production of red blood cells, mainly occurring in the bone marrow. Hematopoiesis is a broader term that encompasses the production of all blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Phagocytosis is the process of engulfing and digesting particles by cells like macrophages, not related to red blood cell production. Thrombopoiesis is the production of platelets, not red blood cells.

4. What is the main function of the lymphatic system?

• A. To transport oxygen
• B. To produce hormones
• C. To fight infections
• D. To transport nutrients

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the lymphatic system is to fight infections. It achieves this by filtering lymph, returning excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, and aiding in the body's immune response. The lymphatic system is crucial in protecting the body against pathogens and maintaining overall health. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing hormones, and transporting nutrients are functions performed by other systems in the body, like the respiratory, endocrine, and circulatory systems, respectively.

5. How is pepsin utilized by the body?

• A. To break down proteins
• B. To break down starches
• C. To emulsify fats and oils
• D. To absorb water and nutrients

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.

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