what is the primary function of the pancreas in digestion
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the primary function of the pancreas in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To secrete digestive enzymes. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the process of breaking down food particles into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body for nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the pancreas is not to absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store glucose in digestion.

2. What is the function of the stomach in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach plays a crucial role in the digestive system by breaking down food using gastric acid and digestive enzymes. This process transforms the food into a semi-liquid mixture known as chyme, which is further digested in the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach does not primarily absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store waste. These functions are carried out by other organs in the digestive system such as the small intestine, liver, and large intestine, respectively.

3. Which hormone is released by the adrenal medulla?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), which is released by the adrenal medulla during the body's fight-or-flight response. Adrenaline helps prepare the body for action by increasing heart rate, dilating air passages, and mobilizing glucose and fats for energy, among other physiological responses. Choice A, Cortisol, is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex involved in the stress response and regulation of metabolism. Choice C, Insulin, is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice D, Somatostatin, is a hormone that inhibits the release of several other hormones in the body, but it is not released by the adrenal medulla.

4. Which part of the brain is most posterior?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The occipital lobe is located at the most posterior part of the brain, towards the back of the head. It is primarily responsible for processing visual information from the eyes and plays a crucial role in vision-related functions. The frontal lobe (Choice A) is located at the front of the brain and is responsible for functions such as reasoning and planning. The parietal lobe (Choice B) is located in the middle part of the brain and plays a role in sensory information processing. The temporal lobe (Choice C) is located on the sides of the brain and is involved in processing auditory information and memory. Therefore, the occipital lobe (Choice D) is the correct answer as it is the most posterior region of the brain.

5. Which hormone is released by the adrenal glands during stress?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released by the adrenal glands during stress to prepare the body for rapid action. It helps in triggering the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, and providing a burst of energy when faced with stressful situations. Insulin (Choice A) is produced by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels, not by the adrenal glands. Melatonin (Choice C) is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is produced by the pineal gland, not the adrenal glands. Cortisol (Choice D) is another hormone produced by the adrenal glands, but it is not the primary hormone released during immediate stress responses; it is more involved in long-term stress regulation.

Similar Questions

Which brain part is responsible for regulating heart rate and blood pressure?
In the human body, the ribs are ___________ to the lungs.
What is the main function of the skeletal system?
Which of the following hormones is responsible for regulating metabolism?
The lateral side of the right knee would be ___________.

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

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

Other Courses