what is the role of the medulla oblongata in the brain
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the function of the medulla oblongata in the brain?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To control breathing and heart rate. The medulla oblongata is a vital part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. These functions are crucial for maintaining life, and the medulla oblongata plays a key role in ensuring the body's survival. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, coordinating voluntary movements is associated with the cerebellum and motor cortex, and processing sensory information is related to the thalamus and sensory cortex, not the medulla oblongata.

2. Which nutrients are important for bone health?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Calcium and phosphorus are crucial nutrients for bone health as they are essential minerals required for bone strength, density, and various body functions. Adequate intake of calcium and phosphorus through the diet is important for maintaining healthy bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, but it is not the main nutrient responsible for bone health. Iron and zinc are important for other bodily functions, not specifically bone health. Magnesium and sodium, while important for overall health, are not as directly linked to bone health as calcium and phosphorus.

3. Through which organ do muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Esophagus. Muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis in the esophagus. Peristalsis is a coordinated muscular contraction that helps move food from the mouth to the stomach through the esophagus. The rhythmic contractions of the esophageal muscles create a wave-like motion that propels food downward toward the stomach for digestion. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the mouth is where digestion begins but does not push food into the stomach, the small intestine is mainly responsible for absorbing nutrients, and the epiglottis is a flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing, not involved in pushing food into the stomach.

4. Which organ system is primarily responsible for integrating voluntary movements?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nervous system. The nervous system is primarily responsible for integrating voluntary movements. This system includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves that communicate signals throughout the body to control movement. The brain interprets sensory information, formulates decisions, and sends signals to the muscles to execute voluntary movements. The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood, the digestive system for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, and the respiratory system for gas exchange in the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not play a primary role in integrating voluntary movements.

5. What is the function of the skin in protecting the body?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skin serves several crucial functions in protecting the body. One of its primary roles is to act as a physical barrier against pathogens, preventing harmful microorganisms from entering the body. Choice A, 'To produce vitamin D,' is incorrect because while the skin is involved in vitamin D synthesis upon exposure to sunlight, its primary protective role is against pathogens. Choice C, 'To store nutrients,' is incorrect as the skin is not a primary organ for nutrient storage. Choice D, 'To regulate body temperature,' is a function of the skin, but the primary role in protecting the body is to act as a barrier against pathogens.

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