Nursing Elites

1. What mineral is essential for muscle function and can cause cramps if deficient?

• A. Sodium
• B. Calcium
• C. Potassium
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Potassium is essential for muscle function, including muscle contraction. A deficiency in potassium can lead to muscle weakness and cramps. While sodium, calcium, and magnesium are also important minerals for muscle function, potassium is specifically known for its role in preventing muscle cramps by regulating muscle contractions and nerve signals.

2. Which of the following structures prevents food from entering the windpipe?

• A. Pharynx
• B. Esophagus
• C. Larynx
• D. Epiglottis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the windpipe by covering the trachea during swallowing. When food is swallowed, the epiglottis folds over the opening of the trachea to ensure that food goes down the esophagus and not into the airway. The pharynx is a shared pathway for both food and air, leading to the esophagus and larynx respectively. The esophagus is the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. The larynx is responsible for producing sound and protecting the airway during swallowing, but the epiglottis is specifically designed to prevent food from entering the windpipe.

3. What are the two main divisions of the skeletal system?

• A. Upper and lower body bones
• B. Axial and appendicular skeleton
• C. Long and short bones
• D. Compact and spongy bone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skeletal system is divided into two main divisions: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton comprises the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, providing structural support and protection for vital organs. On the other hand, the appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the upper and lower limbs, shoulder girdle, and pelvic girdle, facilitating movement and flexibility. The divisions are based on the location and function of the bones within the skeletal system, making choices A, C, and D incorrect as they do not represent the primary divisions of the skeletal system.

4. Why is the electrical conductivity of a strong acid solution higher than that of a weak acid solution?

• A. Strong acids are more concentrated.
• B. Strong acids release more hydrogen ions.
• C. Weak acids are better at dissolving salts.
• D. Strong acids have a lower pH.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because strong acids release more hydrogen ions compared to weak acids. This higher concentration of ions in the solution leads to a higher electrical conductivity. Strong acids ionize completely in solution, producing a higher concentration of ions that can conduct electricity, whereas weak acids only partially ionize, resulting in a lower concentration of ions and lower electrical conductivity. Choice A is incorrect because the concentration of the acid does not directly determine its electrical conductivity. Choice C is incorrect as the ability to dissolve salts is not directly related to electrical conductivity. Choice D is incorrect because the pH of the solution, although related to acidity, does not directly determine the electrical conductivity.

5. What are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms, including humans, termed?

• A. Muscles
• B. Organs
• C. Tissues
• D. Cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cells are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms. They are the basic building blocks of life and carry out essential functions necessary for an organism to survive and function properly. Muscles, organs, and tissues are composed of cells, but cells are the smallest unit that can carry out all the functions of life. Muscles are made up of muscle tissue, which in turn is composed of muscle cells. Organs are structures made up of different types of tissues working together, and tissues are groups of cells with a similar structure and function. Therefore, while muscles, organs, and tissues are important components of living organisms, cells are the fundamental units that perform all the vital functions of life.

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