HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. When are gallstones most problematic?
- A. When they block a duct
- B. When they contain cholesterol
- C. When they contain bilirubin
- D. When they begin to dissolve
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Gallstones become most problematic when they block a duct, such as the bile duct or cystic duct. This blockage can lead to various complications, including inflammation, infection, and even damage to the gallbladder or liver. In severe cases, a blocked duct can cause intense pain, jaundice, and other serious symptoms that require medical intervention. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the presence of cholesterol or bilirubin in gallstones or the process of dissolution do not necessarily indicate when gallstones become most problematic. The critical issue arises when the stones obstruct a duct, leading to complications.
2. Where is the genetic material located within a cell?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Mitochondria
- C. Ribosome
- D. Golgi apparatus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The genetic material, which is composed of DNA, is primarily located in the nucleus of a cell. The nucleus serves as the control center of the cell, housing the genetic information that directs the cell's functions and characteristics. Choice B (Mitochondria), C (Ribosome), and D (Golgi apparatus) are incorrect because while these cellular components play essential roles in the cell, they do not house the genetic material. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for energy production; ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for processing and packaging proteins for transport.
3. What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?
- A. Removing carbon dioxide from the blood
- B. Exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide
- C. Transporting oxygen to the bloodstream
- D. Filtering blood
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the alveoli in the lungs is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for this gas exchange during breathing. Oxygen diffuses from the inhaled air into the blood in the capillaries surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled out of the body. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli primarily facilitate the exchange of gases, not just the removal of carbon dioxide. Choice C is incorrect as the alveoli do not transport oxygen to the bloodstream but rather facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in filtering blood but in gas exchange to ensure proper oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide in the respiratory process.
4. Which of the following are considered normal values for the measure of a person’s pulse and blood pressure?
- A. 55 beats per minute and 75 over 60 mm Hg
- B. 72 beats per minute and 120 over 80 mm Hg
- C. 100 beats per minute and 140 over 100 mm Hg
- D. 160 beats per minute and 100 over 70 mm Hg
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Normal values for pulse rate typically range between 60 to 100 beats per minute, while normal blood pressure values are usually around 120/80 mm Hg. Option B falls within these normal ranges for both pulse rate and blood pressure, making it the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D have either pulse rate, blood pressure, or both values outside the normal ranges, making them incorrect.
5. Where does digestion begin in the digestive system?
- A. Stomach
- B. Mouth
- C. Small intestine
- D. Esophagus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Digestion begins in the mouth. Mechanical digestion through chewing and chemical digestion through saliva initiate the breakdown of food. Enzymes in saliva start breaking down carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. The stomach primarily functions in further breaking down food and mixing it with gastric juices. The small intestine is where most of the digestion and absorption of nutrients occur. The esophagus is a muscular tube that helps move food from the mouth to the stomach, but digestion does not begin there.
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