Nursing Elites

1. Which layer of the skin is responsible for new skin cell production?

• A. Stratum corneum
• B. Stratum basale
• C. Stratum granulosum
• D. Stratum spinosum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Stratum basale. The stratum basale, also known as the basal layer or stratum germinativum, is the deepest layer of the epidermis and is responsible for new skin cell production through cell division. It contains basal cells that continuously divide to produce new keratinocytes, which move up through the layers of the epidermis. Choice A, Stratum corneum, is the outermost layer of the epidermis consisting of dead cells filled with keratin. It serves a protective function but is not involved in new skin cell production. Choice C, Stratum granulosum, is a layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes undergo changes in their structure and composition. It is involved in the process of keratinization but not in new skin cell production. Choice D, Stratum spinosum, is a layer of the epidermis where cells become interconnected by desmosomes. While it plays a role in providing strength and support to the epidermis, it is not primarily responsible for new skin cell production.

2. Which type of cell secretes antibodies?

• A. Bacterial cells
• B. Viral cells
• C. Lymph cells
• D. Plasma cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that secretes antibodies. Antibodies are essential components of the immune system, as they help in identifying and neutralizing pathogens. Choice A, B, and C are incorrect as bacterial cells and viral cells do not secrete antibodies, and lymph cells are involved in the immune response but do not secrete antibodies like plasma cells.

3. What impact would the removal of a keystone species have in an ecosystem?

• A. Lead to a decrease in competition among other species
• B. Cause a slight increase in primary productivity
• C. Have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure
• D. Disrupt the food web and cause cascading effects on other populations

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and structure of an ecosystem due to their significant influence. If a keystone species is removed, it disrupts the delicate food web dynamics and can trigger cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. The disruption in predator-prey relationships can lead to population declines and even extinctions of other species. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because the removal of a keystone species would not decrease competition among other species, cause a slight increase in primary productivity, or have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure. Instead, it would have a profound impact, disrupting the food web and causing cascading effects on other populations.

4. Where does sperm maturation take place in the male reproductive system?

• A. Seminal vesicles
• B. Prostate gland
• C. Epididymis
• D. Vas Deferens

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sperm maturation occurs in the epididymis, a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle. In the epididymis, sperm gain motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. It serves as a storage site for mature sperm until ejaculation. The seminal vesicles and the prostate gland contribute fluids to semen, enhancing sperm viability and motility. The vas deferens is responsible for transporting mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation, but it is not where sperm maturation takes place. Therefore, the correct answer is the epididymis.

5. What causes dandruff?

• A. Excessive sebum production (This can contribute to oily dandruff)
• B. Bacterial infection (This can cause scalp folliculitis, not dandruff)
• C. Overgrowth of a specific type of fungus on the scalp
• D. Lack of proper skin hydration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dandruff is primarily caused by an overgrowth of a specific type of fungus called Malassezia on the scalp. This fungus feeds on the natural oils produced by the hair follicles, leading to irritation and flaking of the scalp skin. Choice A is incorrect because excessive sebum production can contribute to oily dandruff, but it is not the primary cause of dandruff. Choice B is incorrect as bacterial infection primarily causes scalp folliculitis, not dandruff. Choice D is incorrect as dandruff is not primarily caused by a lack of proper skin hydration.

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