HESI A2
Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test
1. What is the primary function of the hypothalamus?
- A. Regulates body balance and thermoregulation
- B. Controls hunger and thirst
- C. Regulates sleep and circadian rhythms
- D. Controls voluntary movements
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary function of the hypothalamus is to regulate body balance and thermoregulation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body equilibrium by controlling functions such as body temperature and water balance. While the hypothalamus is also involved in hunger and thirst regulation, its main role is to ensure homeostasis by monitoring and adjusting body balance and temperature. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hunger and thirst regulation, sleep and circadian rhythm regulation, and control of voluntary movements are secondary functions of the hypothalamus compared to its primary role in maintaining body balance and thermoregulation.
2. What is the primary function of the large intestine?
- A. To absorb water and form solid waste
- B. To produce digestive enzymes
- C. To secrete hormones
- D. To transport nutrients
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter and form solid waste (feces) for excretion. This process helps in reabsorbing water and electrolytes, resulting in the formation of feces by compacting the waste material. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the large intestine is not responsible for producing digestive enzymes, secreting hormones, or transporting nutrients. These functions are typically associated with other parts of the digestive system.
3. Which of the following is true about skeletal muscle?
- A. Skeletal muscle makes up 40% of the body's weight.
- B. Skeletal muscle attaches to bones by tendons.
- C. Muscle contraction is not involved in temperature regulation.
- D. Skeletal muscles contract only when in use.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct statement is that skeletal muscle attaches to bones through tendons, enabling movement. Tendons connect muscles to bones and allow the force generated by muscle contraction to be transmitted to the bones, facilitating voluntary movements. Choice A is incorrect because skeletal muscle typically makes up around 40-50% of an individual's body weight, not a fixed 40%. Choice C is incorrect as muscle contraction plays a vital role in temperature regulation by generating heat. Choice D is incorrect as skeletal muscles may have constant low-level contractions even at rest, known as muscle tone.
4. Beriberi is a disease caused by a lack of ___________.
- A. thiamine
- B. vitamin C
- C. niacin
- D. protein
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Beriberi is a disease caused by a deficiency of thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. Thiamine is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and energy metabolism in the body. Without enough thiamine, individuals may develop symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, nerve damage, and heart problems, which are characteristic of beriberi. Vitamin C (choice B), niacin (choice C), and protein (choice D) deficiencies can cause other health issues but are not directly related to beriberi.
5. Which organ system is primarily responsible for storing minerals?
- A. The skeletal system
- B. The endocrine system
- C. The lymphatic system
- D. The cardiovascular system
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The skeletal system is primarily responsible for storing minerals in the body. Bones serve as a storage site for essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are important for various bodily functions including bone strength, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. The minerals stored in bones can be released into the bloodstream as needed to maintain optimal mineral levels in the body. The endocrine system is responsible for hormone regulation, not mineral storage. The lymphatic system is involved in immune function and fluid balance, not mineral storage. The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, not storing minerals.
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