Nursing Elites

1. What is the function of the epiglottis?

• A. Produces saliva
• B. Senses taste
• C. Prevents food from entering the windpipe
• D. Filters blood

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action ensures that food and liquids are directed to the esophagus and down into the stomach, rather than entering the respiratory system, which could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe functions of other structures in the body that are not related to the role of the epiglottis.

2. Which division of the peripheral nervous system is responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to skeletal muscles, enabling voluntary muscle movements?

• A. Somatic nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Sympathetic nervous system
• D. Parasympathetic nervous system

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the somatic nervous system. The somatic nervous system is responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to skeletal muscles, allowing for voluntary muscle movements. The autonomic nervous system, sympathetic nervous system, and parasympathetic nervous system are not involved in voluntary muscle movements. Instead, they regulate involuntary functions of the body such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not associated with voluntary muscle movements.

3. What is the term for the chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons?

• A. Reduction
• B. Oxidation
• C. Neutralization
• D. Precipitation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Oxidation is the process where a substance loses electrons. In an oxidation reaction, the substance being oxidized loses electrons, which are gained by another substance. Reduction is the opposite process, where a substance gains electrons. Neutralization is a reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water. Precipitation is the formation of a solid from a solution. Therefore, in the context of a chemical reaction involving the loss of electrons, the correct term is oxidation (Choice B).

4. Which of the following neurotransmitters slows down the activity of neurons, preventing them from becoming overexcited?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Dopamine
• C. GABA
• D. Serotonin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neuronal activity, thus preventing overexcitation. Acetylcholine (choice A) is involved in muscle control and cognitive function, but it is not primarily responsible for slowing down neuronal activity. Dopamine (choice B) plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control, rather than inhibiting neuronal firing. Serotonin (choice D) is involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite but does not primarily slow down neuronal activity to prevent overexcitation.

5. What is the fundamental unit of the nervous system?

• A. Neuron
• B. Nerve
• C. Ganglion
• D. Neuroglia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Neuron. Neurons are the fundamental building blocks of the nervous system. These specialized cells play a crucial role in transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. While nerves are comprised of bundles of neurons and ganglia consist of clusters of nerve cell bodies located outside the central nervous system, neuroglia serve as support cells for neurons. Neurons are specifically responsible for processing and transmitting information within the nervous system, making them the essential unit of this complex system. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as nerves are bundles of neurons, ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system, and neuroglia are support cells for neurons, not the fundamental units responsible for information processing and transmission.

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