what is the primary function of the immune system
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the primary function of the immune system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the immune system is to fight infections. It identifies and destroys pathogens like bacteria and viruses, protecting the body from harmful substances. While oxygen transportation is carried out by the respiratory system, energy production is mainly the role of the metabolic system, and body temperature regulation is managed by the thermoregulatory system. These functions are separate from the immune system's primary role of defending the body against infections.

2. Where is a gallstone most likely to cause pain?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A gallstone is most likely to cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This specific area corresponds to the location of the gallbladder. When a gallstone blocks the flow of bile from the gallbladder, it can lead to inflammation and pain in this region. The pain may also radiate to the back or right shoulder blade due to referred pain patterns associated with gallbladder issues. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because gallstone pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, not the lower right quadrant, umbilical region, or along the pelvic girdle.

3. What does the parathyroid hormone regulate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The parathyroid hormone primarily regulates calcium levels in the blood. It acts to increase calcium levels by stimulating the release of calcium from bones, enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and promoting the conversion of vitamin D to its active form, which aids in calcium absorption from the intestines. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the parathyroid hormone does not play a significant role in the regulation of magnesium (Choice A), calcitonin (Choice C), or glucocorticoids (Choice D).

4. Which hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its secretion is influenced by light exposure, with levels typically rising in the evening to promote sleep and falling in the morning to encourage wakefulness. Insulin is involved in regulating blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle. Cortisol plays a role in the body's stress response and circadian rhythm but is not the primary hormone regulating sleep-wake cycles. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, not the sleep-wake cycle.

5. Which system does the gall bladder belong to?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The gall bladder is part of the digestive system. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver and release it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. This process facilitates the breakdown and absorption of fats from the food we consume. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the gall bladder is not associated with the endocrine, urinary, or nervous systems.

Similar Questions

Which vitamin is essential for vision and skin health?
Which gland produces melatonin?
What is the role of the spleen in the lymphatic system?
Which structure in the ear is responsible for hearing?
Which brain structure is responsible for regulating hunger and thirst?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$49/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$99/ 90 days

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

Other Courses