Nursing Elites

1. Where does the majority of nutrient absorption occur?

• A. Mouth
• B. Stomach
• C. Small intestine
• D. Large intestine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine. The small intestine is where the final stages of digestion take place, and it is specialized for absorption with its large surface area and villi that increase nutrient absorption efficiency. The mouth is responsible for mechanical digestion through chewing, the stomach primarily aids in digestion through mixing and breakdown of food, and the large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, with minimal nutrient absorption.

2. Which hormone, produced by the thyroid gland, plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood by promoting calcium release from bones and increasing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys?

• A. Calcitonin
• B. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, is responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood. It works by decreasing blood calcium levels through two main mechanisms: promoting calcium uptake by bones and decreasing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys. Parathyroid hormone (PTH), on the other hand, increases blood calcium levels by promoting calcium release from bones and increasing calcium absorption in the intestines. Thyroxine, another thyroid hormone, primarily regulates metabolism and has no direct influence on calcium levels. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and is not related to calcium homeostasis.

3. During a scientific investigation, what is intentionally changed or manipulated?

• A. The dependent variable.
• B. The control.
• C. The hypothesis.
• D. The independent variable.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a scientific investigation, the independent variable is intentionally changed or manipulated by the researcher to observe its impact or effect on the dependent variable. The independent variable is the one being tested or studied to see how it influences the dependent variable. In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome or response that is measured in an experiment and is expected to change as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable. Choices A, B, and C are not directly altered during a scientific investigation but play different roles in the research process. Therefore, the correct answer is D - the independent variable.

4. What is the primary function of the large intestine?

• A. Digesting and absorbing nutrients
• B. Storing and mixing food
• C. Breaking down carbohydrates
• D. Absorbing water and electrolytes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water and electrolytes from the indigestible food matter that passes through it. This absorption process aids in the formation of solid waste (feces) before it is excreted from the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the large intestine does not primarily digest and absorb nutrients, store and mix food, or break down carbohydrates. These functions are primarily carried out by the small intestine.

5. What generates action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons?

• A. Glucose
• B. Sodium and potassium ions
• C. Neurotransmitters
• D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons, are generated by the movement of sodium and potassium ions across the neuronal membrane. This movement creates changes in the membrane potential, leading to the propagation of the electrical signal along the neuron. Glucose is a source of energy for neurons but is not directly involved in generating action potentials. Neurotransmitters are involved in communication between neurons but do not directly generate action potentials. Myelin is a fatty substance that insulates and speeds up the conduction of action potentials but does not generate them.

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