Nursing Elites

1. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

2. What is the name of the cartilage flap that covers the trachea during swallowing, preventing food from entering the airway?

• A. Epiglottis
• B. Glottis
• C. Larynx
• D. Pharynx

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Epiglottis. The epiglottis is a cartilage flap located at the base of the tongue that covers the trachea during swallowing. Its primary function is to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway and instead directs them towards the esophagus. The glottis (choice B) refers to the space between the vocal cords in the larynx. The larynx (choice C) is the voice box containing the vocal cords responsible for phonation. The pharynx (choice D) is the throat region connecting the mouth and the esophagus, playing a role in both digestion and respiration.

3. Bile, a yellowish-green fluid, is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine during digestion. What is the primary function of bile in digestion?

• A. Break down carbohydrates
• B. Break down proteins
• C. Emulsify fats
• D. Neutralize stomach acid

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of bile in digestion is to emulsify fats. Bile contains bile salts that help break down large fat globules into smaller droplets, increasing the surface area for enzymes to work on and aiding in the absorption of fats in the small intestine. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because bile's main role is not to break down carbohydrates or proteins, nor to neutralize stomach acid; rather, it primarily assists in the digestion and absorption of fats through emulsification.

4. What is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body?

• A. Jugular vein
• B. Thoracic duct
• C. Subclavian vein
• D. Aorta

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body, responsible for draining lymph from most parts of the body except for the right upper quadrant. The jugular vein, subclavian vein, and aorta are not part of the lymphatic system; they are blood vessels and do not serve as lymphatic vessels. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not associated with the lymphatic system's transport of lymph.

5. Why is warming up before exercise important?

• A. To prevent dehydration
• B. To prevent muscle soreness
• C. To prevent increased heart rate
• D. To prevent low blood sugar

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Warming up before exercise is crucial to prevent muscle soreness. It helps by increasing blood flow to the muscles, improving flexibility, and preparing the body for physical activity. Dehydration, increased heart rate, and low blood sugar are not directly prevented by warming up before exercise. Dehydration is prevented by proper hydration before and during exercise; increased heart rate is a normal physiological response to exercise; and low blood sugar is managed through proper nutrition and timing of meals before physical activity.

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