Nursing Elites

1. What is the name of the microscopic finger-like projections that increase the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?

• A. Goblet cells
• B. Paneth cells
• C. Villi
• D. Crypts of Lieberkühn

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Goblet cells: Goblet cells are specialized cells that secrete mucus to protect the lining of the digestive tract. While important for maintaining the health of the intestines, goblet cells do not increase the surface area for absorption in the small intestine. B) Paneth cells: Paneth cells are specialized cells found in the small intestine that secrete antimicrobial peptides. They play a role in protecting the intestinal stem cells and maintaining the gut microbiota balance, but they do not increase the surface area for absorption. C) Villi: Villi are microscopic finger-like projections found in the small intestine that increase the surface area available for absorption of nutrients. Each villus contains blood vessels and lacteals (lymphatic vessels) that help absorb nutrients from digested food. D) Crypts of Lieberkühn: Crypts of Lieberkühn are small pits located between the villi

2. A pediatrician notes that an infant's cartilage is disappearing and being replaced by bone. What process has the doctor observed?

• A. Mineralization
• B. Ossification
• C. Osteoporosis
• D. Calcification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The doctor has observed the process of ossification. Ossification is the natural process where cartilage in the body is replaced by bone. This process takes place during fetal development, growth, and bone fracture healing. Ossification involves the formation of bone tissue by depositing minerals like calcium and phosphorus within the cartilage matrix, leading to the development of a bone structure. Choice A, mineralization, refers to the process of forming mineral deposits in tissues, but it does not involve the replacement of cartilage by bone. Choice C, osteoporosis, is a condition characterized by bone density loss and increased fragility, not the natural process of cartilage replacement by bone. Choice D, calcification, is the process of deposition of calcium salts in various tissues, but it does not specifically involve the replacement of cartilage by bone as in ossification.

3. Which of the following is the main organ responsible for absorbing nutrients?

• A. Stomach
• B. Small intestine
• C. Large intestine
• D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the main organ responsible for absorbing nutrients from the food we eat. It is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals occurs. The inner lining of the small intestine is covered in tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for nutrient absorption. While the stomach plays a role in breaking down food into smaller particles, the actual absorption of nutrients primarily takes place in the small intestine. The large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, and the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones but is not primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients.

4. Which of the following is an example of a tissue?

• A. chloroplasts
• B. liver
• C. mammal
• D. hamstring

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: liver.' The liver is an example of a tissue. Tissues are groups of cells that work together to perform specific functions in the body. The liver is made up of different types of cells that work together to carry out various essential functions, such as detoxification, metabolism, and storage of nutrients. Option A (chloroplasts) refers to organelles, not tissues. Option D (hamstring) is a muscle, not a tissue. Option C (mammal) represents a higher level of organization than tissues, as it refers to a classification of organisms, not a specific tissue type.

5. What is the difference between alpha decay and beta decay?

• A. Both release the same type of particle.
• B. Alpha decay releases a helium nucleus, while beta decay releases an electron or positron.
• C. Alpha decay is more common than beta decay.
• D. They both convert one element into another, but in different ways.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alpha decay involves the release of a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. In contrast, beta decay releases an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). This significant distinction in the particles emitted during the decay processes distinguishes alpha decay from beta decay. Choice A is incorrect because alpha and beta decay release different types of particles. Choice C is incorrect as beta decay is more common than alpha decay in many cases. Choice D is incorrect as it does not specifically address the particles released during alpha and beta decay.

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