what is the function of the respiratory system
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. Oxygen is taken in during inhalation and transported to cells, while carbon dioxide is removed during exhalation as a waste product of cellular metabolism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the primary function of the respiratory system. Regulating body temperature is mainly controlled by the thermoregulatory system, fighting infections is a function of the immune system, and producing energy is primarily done by the metabolic system.

2. Which type of blood cell is responsible for carrying oxygen?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Red blood cells. Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are specialized cells designed to transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs throughout the body. These cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules in the lungs and releases them in other parts of the body where oxygen is needed for cellular respiration. White blood cells (choice B) are part of the immune system, responsible for fighting infections. Platelets (choice C) are involved in blood clotting. Plasma cells (choice D) are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies to help the body fight off infections.

3. Which of the following statements is anatomically correct?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'proximal' refers to a body part being closer to the center of the body or a point of reference. In this case, the hip is closer to the center of the body compared to the knee, which makes the statement anatomically correct. Choice A is incorrect as the knee is proximal to the ankle. Choice B is incorrect as the heart is superior to the diaphragm. Choice D is incorrect as the elbow is proximal to the wrist.

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the large intestine is the absorption of water and electrolytes from indigestible food residues, helping to form solid waste (feces) for elimination. It mainly reabsorbs water and compacts the remaining material into feces, playing a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because absorption of nutrients primarily occurs in the small intestine, secretion of digestive enzymes mainly occurs in the stomach and small intestine, and breaking down fats primarily occurs in the small intestine with the help of bile from the liver and enzymes.

5. When an individual is under stress, hormones are released. Which of the following is not one of the locations in which hormones are released when under stress?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During stress, hormones are released from the adrenal cortex, posterior pituitary, and hypothalamus to help the body respond. The parathyroid gland, however, is not typically involved in the stress response by releasing hormones. The posterior pituitary releases hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin, the hypothalamus secretes corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and vasopressin, while the adrenal cortex releases cortisol and aldosterone in response to stress. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Parathyroid.'

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