Nursing Elites

1. What is the main function of the epiglottis?

• A. To store bile
• B. To absorb nutrients
• C. To prevent food from entering the trachea
• D. To produce digestive enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action helps direct food and liquids into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach for digestion, while also protecting the respiratory system from potential blockages that could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the epiglottis is not involved in storing bile, absorbing nutrients, or producing digestive enzymes. Understanding the role of the epiglottis in the swallowing process is crucial for maintaining proper respiratory and digestive functions.

2. Which of the following is NOT a recognized mode of natural selection?

• A. Directional selection (favoring one extreme trait value on a spectrum)
• B. Disruptive selection (favoring both extreme trait values on a spectrum)
• C. Stabilizing selection (favoring the average trait value on a spectrum)
• D. Sexual selection (selection based on mate choice that influences reproductive success)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others, leading to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value, potentially causing the population to split into distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection favoring the average trait value on a spectrum over extreme values, resulting in reduced genetic diversity. D) Sexual selection differs from traditional natural selection modes as it involves mate choice and competition for mates, not direct selection pressure on traits affecting survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can drive the evolution of traits enhancing an individual's attractiveness for mating purposes.

3. Which level of protein structure is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone?

• A. Primary
• B. Secondary
• C. Tertiary
• D. Quaternary

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Secondary. The secondary structure of a protein is defined by the folding and coiling of the polypeptide backbone into structures like alpha helices and beta sheets. Secondary structure primarily involves interactions such as hydrogen bonding within the backbone. This level of protein structure is distinct from primary structure (A) which refers to the linear sequence of amino acids, tertiary structure (C) which involves the overall 3D arrangement of a single polypeptide chain, and quaternary structure (D) which pertains to the interaction between multiple polypeptide chains in a protein complex.

4. Which represents the correct order of airflow in the lungs?

• A. Bronchi, trachea, alveoli, bronchioles
• B. Alveoli, bronchioles, bronchi, trachea
• C. Trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli
• D. Bronchioles, alveoli, trachea, bronchi

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct order of airflow in the lungs starts with air entering through the trachea, moving into the bronchi, then proceeding to the bronchioles, and finally reaching the alveoli where gas exchange occurs. Therefore, the correct sequence is Trachea, Bronchi, Bronchioles, Alveoli, making choice C the accurate representation of the airflow in the lungs. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not follow the anatomical path of airflow in the lungs as air moves from the trachea to the bronchi, then bronchioles, and finally the alveoli for gas exchange.

5. Which type of muscle is responsible for moving the skeleton?

• A. Cardiac muscle
• B. Skeletal muscle
• C. Smooth muscle
• D. Voluntary muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Skeletal muscle is the correct answer as it is responsible for moving the skeleton. Skeletal muscles are under voluntary control, meaning they can be consciously controlled by the individual. Cardiac muscle (Choice A) is found in the heart and is responsible for pumping blood, not moving the skeleton. Smooth muscle (Choice C) is found in internal organs and is responsible for involuntary movements like digestion. Voluntary muscle (Choice D) is not a specific type of muscle; it refers to muscles that can be consciously controlled, which includes skeletal muscles.

Similar Questions