what is the primary function of the liver
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Nursing Elites

HESI A2

Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the primary function of the liver?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the liver is to detoxify harmful substances in the blood. While the liver also produces bile, which aids in digestion, stores glycogen for energy storage, and participates in metabolism, its main and essential function is detoxification. Producing insulin is mainly attributed to the pancreas, not the liver.

2. Which muscle group is primarily responsible for extending the knee?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The quadriceps, a group of muscles located on the front of the thigh, are primarily responsible for extending the knee joint. When the quadriceps contract, they work to straighten the knee, allowing for actions like kicking or standing up from a seated position. The hamstrings (Choice A) are responsible for flexing the knee, the calves (Choice C) primarily work on plantar flexion at the ankle joint, and the glutes (Choice D) are mainly involved in hip extension.

3. Which is a secondary defense for the body against pathogens?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inflammation is a secondary defense mechanism for the body against pathogens. When tissues are injured or infected, inflammation occurs as a protective response involving increased blood flow, white blood cell migration, and tissue repair. This process helps contain and eliminate pathogens, preventing them from spreading further in the body. Tears (Choice A) are a primary defense containing lysozyme and other antimicrobial agents. Urine (Choice B) is typically considered a non-specific defense mechanism due to its flushing action in the urinary tract. Mucus (Choice D) acts as a physical barrier and traps pathogens, also considered a primary defense mechanism.

4. When an individual is under stress, hormones are released. Which of the following is not one of the locations where hormones are released when under stress?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The parathyroid gland is not a location where hormones are typically released during stress. It primarily regulates calcium levels in the blood through the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH). On the other hand, the adrenal cortex releases hormones like cortisol in response to stress, the posterior pituitary releases oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone, and the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in coordinating stress responses through the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Therefore, the parathyroid gland is the correct answer as it is not directly involved in the stress response pathway.

5. What is the function of the gallbladder in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The gallbladder's main function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as the gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile rather than producing it. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce bile, detoxify harmful substances, or regulate blood sugar in the digestive system.

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