Nursing Elites

1. What are the chemical messengers that control growth, differentiation, and metabolism of specific target cells called?

• A. Hormones
• B. Neurons
• C. Glands
• D. Second messengers

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hormones are signaling molecules produced by glands in multicellular organisms. They travel through the bloodstream to specific target cells where they regulate various physiological processes, including growth, differentiation, and metabolism. Neurons (choice B) are nerve cells that transmit nerve impulses and are not responsible for controlling growth, differentiation, or metabolism. Glands (choice C) produce and release hormones but are not the chemical messengers themselves. Second messengers (choice D) are molecules involved in intracellular signal transduction, not the primary chemical messengers controlling growth, differentiation, and metabolism. Therefore, hormones (choice A) are the correct answer as they match the description provided in the question.

2. What is the name of the structure that prevents food from entering the airway?

• A. trachea
• B. esophagus
• C. diaphragm
• D. epiglottis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the airway. It acts as a lid over the trachea during swallowing, directing food to the esophagus instead of the windpipe (trachea). The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that allows air to pass into the lungs, the esophagus (Choice B) is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and the diaphragm (Choice C) is a muscle involved in breathing and not in preventing food passage.

3. What is the function of the small intestine?

• A. To store bile
• B. To absorb nutrients
• C. To digest food
• D. To produce enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Therefore, the correct function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients. Choice A is incorrect because the gallbladder stores bile, not the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect because the digestion process primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice D is incorrect because while the small intestine does play a role in enzyme production, its primary function is nutrient absorption.

4. Which vitamin is essential for calcium absorption?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Vitamin K
• D. Vitamin C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium in the intestines. It aids in maintaining optimal calcium levels in the body, promoting strong bones and teeth. Without sufficient Vitamin D, the absorption of calcium can be compromised, leading to potential issues with bone health. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Vitamin A is essential for vision, skin health, and immune function. Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Vitamin C is important for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and immune function, but it is not directly involved in calcium absorption.

5. Which type of muscle is under voluntary control?

• A. Smooth muscle
• B. Cardiac muscle
• C. Skeletal muscle
• D. Striated muscle

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Skeletal muscle. Skeletal muscle is under voluntary control, allowing individuals to consciously regulate its contractions for movement. Examples of skeletal muscle control include actions like walking, running, and lifting weights. Smooth muscle (choice A) and cardiac muscle (choice B) are both involuntary muscles, meaning they are not under conscious control. While skeletal muscle is striated (choice D), striated muscle is a broader category that includes both voluntary (skeletal) and involuntary (cardiac) muscles.

Similar Questions