Nursing Elites

1. Where is a herniated lumbar disc most likely to cause pain?

• A. Along the radial nerve
• B. Within the spinal cord
• C. Along the sciatic nerve
• D. Along the tibial nerve

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A herniated lumbar disc is most likely to cause pain along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a long nerve that extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. Compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the leg. This condition is commonly referred to as sciatica. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a herniated lumbar disc typically affects the sciatic nerve, not the radial nerve, spinal cord, or tibial nerve.

2. What is the main function of the respiratory system?

• A. To transport nutrients
• B. To regulate body temperature
• C. To absorb oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
• D. To produce energy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the respiratory system is to absorb oxygen from the air into the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide from the body. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration, the process through which cells generate energy. Carbon dioxide is a waste product expelled during this process. Choice A, 'To transport nutrients,' is incorrect as the respiratory system is not primarily responsible for transporting nutrients. Choice B, 'To regulate body temperature,' is incorrect as the respiratory system's main role is not temperature regulation. Choice D, 'To produce energy,' is incorrect because while oxygen obtained through respiration is used in the energy production process, the respiratory system itself does not directly produce energy.

3. Which part of the nervous system includes the femoral, radial, and ulnar nerves?

• A. Somatic
• B. Autonomic
• C. Sympathetic
• D. Parasympathetic

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Somatic. The femoral, radial, and ulnar nerves are all part of the somatic nervous system, responsible for controlling voluntary movements and sensory input. These nerves innervate muscles and skin throughout the body, allowing conscious control of movements and sensations. The somatic nervous system is distinct from the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the autonomic nervous system (B) is responsible for involuntary functions, while the sympathetic (C) and parasympathetic (D) divisions are subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system, not the somatic nervous system.

4. Which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism?

• A. Pituitary gland
• B. Adrenal gland
• C. Thyroid gland
• D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism. It produces hormones such as thyroxine, which plays a key role in influencing the body's metabolic rate. The pituitary gland is known as the 'master gland' but is not directly responsible for regulating metabolism. The adrenal gland is involved in the stress response and producing hormones like cortisol, not primarily regulating metabolism. The pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, not metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland.

5. Which bone does not articulate with any other bone in the body?

• A. Scapula
• B. Hyoid
• C. Radius
• D. Femur

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hyoid. The hyoid bone is the only bone in the body that does not articulate with any other bones. It is located in the neck and supports the tongue and other muscles involved in swallowing and speech. The scapula articulates with the clavicle and humerus, the radius with the ulna and humerus, and the femur with the pelvis and tibia. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they all articulate with other bones in the body.

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