HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. Which bones do the rotator cuff help to stabilize?
- A. Radius and humerus
- B. Scapula and clavicle
- C. Humerus and scapula
- D. Ulna and radius
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Humerus and scapula. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help stabilize the shoulder joint. Specifically, the rotator cuff muscles help to stabilize the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) within the shallow socket of the scapula (shoulder blade). This stabilizing action is crucial for maintaining shoulder joint function and preventing injuries. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the rotator cuff primarily stabilizes the humerus and scapula, not the radius, ulna, or clavicle.
2. Which structure in the ear is responsible for detecting sound?
- A. Cochlea
- B. Eustachian tube
- C. Ossicles
- D. Semicircular canals
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The cochlea, situated in the inner ear, is responsible for detecting sound waves and converting them into neural signals that are transmitted to the brain for processing. The cochlea contains specialized sensory cells that respond to different frequencies of sound, allowing us to hear a wide range of sounds. The other structures listed, such as the eustachian tube, ossicles, and semicircular canals, play roles in functions like equalizing pressure, transmitting vibrations, and maintaining balance, respectively, but they are not directly involved in the detection of sound.
3. Which gland produces hormones that regulate sleep?
- A. Thyroid gland
- B. Pineal gland
- C. Adrenal gland
- D. Pituitary gland
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin production is influenced by exposure to light, with levels increasing in the evening to promote sleep and decreasing in the morning to signal wakefulness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol related to stress response, and the pituitary gland controls various functions by releasing different hormones but not specifically related to regulating sleep.
4. What does trypsin break down in the body?
- A. Fat
- B. Starch
- C. Proteins
- D. Nucleic acids
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Trypsin is an enzyme that specifically breaks down proteins into smaller peptides by hydrolyzing peptide bonds. It is a key enzyme involved in the digestion of proteins in the body, particularly in the small intestine where it helps in the final stages of protein digestion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because trypsin does not break down fats, starch, or nucleic acids; its primary function is the digestion of proteins.
5. Which gland is located superior to the kidney?
- A. Pituitary
- B. Adrenal
- C. Hypothalamus
- D. Pancreas
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The adrenal gland is located superior to the kidney. Each kidney is surrounded by an adrenal gland, also known as the suprarenal gland, situated on top of the kidneys. The pituitary gland (A) is located in the brain, while the hypothalamus (C) is also in the brain, above the pituitary gland. The pancreas (D) is located in the abdomen, near the stomach and small intestine, not superior to the kidney.
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