Nursing Elites

1. What is the main function of dietary fiber in the digestive system?

• A. To provide energy
• B. To break down fats
• C. To promote gut bacteria growth
• D. To aid in absorption of nutrients

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dietary fiber refers to the indigestible portion of plant foods that passes relatively intact through the digestive system. While fiber does not directly provide energy to the body, it plays a crucial role in promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria help in the fermentation of fiber, producing short-chain fatty acids that can be used as an energy source by the body. Additionally, fiber aids in regulating bowel movements, maintaining gut health, and supporting overall digestive function. The functions described in the incorrect choices do not align with the primary role of dietary fiber in the digestive system. Choice A is incorrect because fiber itself is not a direct energy source. Choice B is incorrect as fiber does not break down fats. Choice D is incorrect because while fiber affects nutrient absorption indirectly by supporting gut health, its primary role is not to aid in the absorption of nutrients.

2. During which developmental process does the first trimester of gestation roughly correspond?

• A. Embryogenesis
• B. Fertilization
• C. Meiosis
• D. Menstruation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Embryogenesis. The first trimester of gestation involves the process of embryogenesis, where the basic structures of the embryo are formed. This period is critical for the development of major organ systems and the establishment of the embryo's overall body plan. Fertilization occurs at the beginning of pregnancy when the sperm fertilizes the egg, marking the start of embryonic development. Meiosis is a cell division process that produces gametes (sperm and egg cells) with half the number of chromosomes. Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur.

3. What are the microscopic units responsible for muscle contraction called?

• A. Neurons
• B. Myofibrils
• C. Tendons
• D. Sarcomeres

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the fundamental contractile units of skeletal muscles and are responsible for muscle contraction. They consist of actin and myosin filaments that slide past each other during muscle contraction. Neurons are responsible for transmitting signals to and from muscles but are not directly involved in muscle contraction. Myofibrils are composed of sarcomeres and are the structures within muscle cells where muscle contractions take place. Tendons are connective tissues that attach muscles to bones and are not directly involved in muscle contraction.

4. Which of the following is NOT a type of epithelium?

• A. Stratified squamous
• B. Simple cuboidal
• C. Stratified columnar
• D. Pseudostratified columnar

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Pseudostratified columnar. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium is not a type of epithelium. It is a specialized form of simple columnar epithelium. Stratified squamous, simple cuboidal, and stratified columnar are all types of epithelial tissues found in the human body. Stratified squamous epithelium is found in the skin, mouth, and esophagus; simple cuboidal epithelium lines kidney tubules and glands; stratified columnar epithelium is present in parts of the respiratory tract and male urethra.

5. What is hydroxyapatite?

• A. A mixture of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that strengthen the collagen matrix of bone.
• B. The structural unit of a bone that runs the length of the bone.
• C. The covering of bones at the point of articulation to prevent grinding.
• D. The lightest portion of a long bone and concentrated at the ends.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound composed of calcium and phosphorus that plays a crucial role in strengthening the collagen matrix of bones, contributing to their structural integrity and hardness. It is a key component of bone tissue and provides the mineralization necessary for bone strength and density. Choice B is incorrect because the structural unit of a bone is the osteon or Haversian system, not hydroxyapatite. Choice C is incorrect as it describes cartilage, not hydroxyapatite. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the epiphysis, which is not synonymous with hydroxyapatite.

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