what is the function of the stomach in digestion
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test

1. What is the function of the stomach in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach's primary function in digestion is to break down food mechanically and chemically. It accomplishes this by mixing food with gastric acid and digestive enzymes, resulting in the formation of chyme, a semi-liquid mixture that moves on to further digestion in the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because the absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine, not in the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because while the stomach does secrete digestive enzymes like pepsin, its primary role is not just limited to enzyme secretion. Choice D is incorrect because the storage of glucose primarily occurs in the liver and muscles, not in the stomach.

2. What is the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb nutrients. The small intestine's main role in the digestive system is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It has specialized structures, such as villi and microvilli, that increase its surface area for efficient absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Choice A is incorrect because the small intestine does not primarily secrete digestive enzymes; that role is mainly carried out by the pancreas and other digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect because the small intestine primarily absorbs nutrients rather than breaking down food. Choice D is incorrect because the absorption of water primarily occurs in the large intestine, not the small intestine.

3. How is pepsin utilized by the body?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.

4. 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.'

5. The lateral side of the right knee would be ___________.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The lateral side of the right knee is the side that is farthest from the left knee when looking at the knee joint from the front. The term 'lateral' refers to the side of the body that is farther away from the midline or center of the body. In this case, the lateral side of the right knee is on the outer side of the knee joint, away from the other knee. Choice A is incorrect as the kneecap is located at the front of the knee. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the medial side, not the lateral side. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the underside, which is not related to the lateral aspect of the knee.

Similar Questions

Which structure in the brain is involved in regulating body temperature?
What is the main function of the large intestine?
What is the role of the spleen in the lymphatic system?
Which of the following is not a principal organ of the nervous system?
What is the function of the large intestine in the digestive system?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses