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 hormone is involved in the body's stress response?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cortisol. Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, is involved in the body's stress response. It helps regulate metabolism, immune function, and the body's response to stressors by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Choice A, Insulin, is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and is not primarily involved in the stress response. Choice B, Adrenaline, is also known as epinephrine and is involved in the fight-or-flight response, which is related to stress but is not the main hormone in the body's stress response. Choice D, Melatonin, is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is not directly involved in the stress response.

3. Which muscle is responsible for the extension of the elbow?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Triceps brachii. The triceps brachii muscle is responsible for extending the elbow joint. It is located on the back of the upper arm and acts in opposition to the biceps brachii, which is responsible for elbow flexion. The deltoid muscle is primarily responsible for shoulder abduction, not elbow extension. The pectoralis major muscle is involved in movements of the shoulder joint, not the elbow.

4. Which gland regulates the body's metabolic rate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body's metabolic rate by producing hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in controlling the body's metabolism, affecting processes like growth, energy production, and temperature regulation. The pituitary gland is known as the 'master gland' but primarily regulates other endocrine glands by releasing hormones that stimulate their function. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are involved in the body's response to stress. The pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms, but is not directly involved in regulating metabolic rate.

5. What is the primary function of the pancreas in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To secrete digestive enzymes. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the process of breaking down food particles into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body for nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the pancreas is not to absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store glucose in digestion.

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