Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. What is the primary function of the skin in the integumentary system?

• A. Regulating body temperature
• B. Protecting the body from external damage
• C. Producing red blood cells
• D. Producing hormones

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the skin in the integumentary system is to protect the body from external damage. The skin acts as a barrier against pathogens, UV radiation, and physical trauma. While the skin does help regulate body temperature by sweating and vasodilation, its main role is protection. Skin does not produce red blood cells; this is the function of the bone marrow. Hormones are primarily produced by endocrine glands, not the skin.

3. What structures are likely torn in a rotator cuff tear?

• A. Tendon and possibly ligament
• B. Muscle and possibly tendon
• C. Ligament and possibly muscle
• D. Tendon only

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a rotator cuff tear, the most common structures torn are the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles. In severe cases, the tear may also extend to involve the surrounding ligaments. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as it accurately represents the structures that are likely to be affected in a rotator cuff tear. Choice B is incorrect as muscles are not typically torn in a rotator cuff tear. Choice C is also incorrect as ligaments are not the primary structures involved in a rotator cuff tear. Choice D is incorrect because a rotator cuff tear typically involves more than just the tendons.

4. How do the intercostal muscles between the ribs assist with respiration?

• A. By protecting the delicate bronchioles and alveoli
• B. By signaling a decrease in intra-alveolar pressure
• C. By enlarging and reducing the space in the thorax
• D. By maintaining a medial separation between pleurae

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a crucial role in respiration by aiding in the enlargement and reduction of the space in the thorax. During inspiration, these muscles contract, lifting the rib cage, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows the lungs to expand and fill with air. This process directly relates to the expansion of the thorax rather than protecting bronchioles and alveoli (Choice A), signaling intra-alveolar pressure changes (Choice B), or maintaining the separation between pleurae (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.

5. What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

• A. Removing carbon dioxide from the blood
• B. Exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide
• C. Transporting oxygen to the bloodstream
• D. Filtering blood

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the alveoli in the lungs is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for this gas exchange during breathing. Oxygen diffuses from the inhaled air into the blood in the capillaries surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled out of the body. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli primarily facilitate the exchange of gases, not just the removal of carbon dioxide. Choice C is incorrect as the alveoli do not transport oxygen to the bloodstream but rather facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in filtering blood but in gas exchange to ensure proper oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide in the respiratory process.

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