Nursing Elites

1. Which digestive enzyme is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Lipase
• C. Amylase
• D. Maltase

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Pepsin. Pepsin is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins in the stomach. It is produced in an inactive form called pepsinogen, which becomes activated by the acidic environment in the stomach. Pepsin functions by breaking down proteins into smaller peptides, which are further digested by other enzymes in the small intestine. Lipase is responsible for breaking down fats, amylase for carbohydrates, and maltase for converting maltose into glucose. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are associated with breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and converting maltose, respectively, not proteins.

2. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

• A. Heartbeat
• B. Respiration
• C. Electrolyte and water balance
• D. Homeostasis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

3. How do organisms maintain homeostasis?

• A. By increasing their body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance.
• B. By undergoing biochemical processes and absorbing energy to increase entropy.
• C. By undergoing biochemical processes to maintain the order of their external environment.
• D. By using free energy and matter via biochemical processes to work against entropy.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Organisms maintain homeostasis by utilizing free energy and matter through biochemical processes to counteract entropy, which helps in preserving internal stability. This process involves maintaining a balance within the organism's internal environment despite external changes, ensuring proper functioning and survival. Choice A is incorrect because increasing body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance alone do not define the comprehensive process of maintaining homeostasis. Choice B is incorrect as absorbing energy to increase entropy goes against the concept of maintaining internal stability. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining the order of the external environment does not directly contribute to the organism's internal stability and balance.

4. What is the name of the cartilage flap that covers the trachea during swallowing, preventing food from entering the airway?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Epiglottis. The epiglottis is a cartilage flap located at the base of the tongue that covers the trachea during swallowing. Its primary function is to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway and instead directs them towards the esophagus. The glottis (choice B) refers to the space between the vocal cords in the larynx. The larynx (choice C) is the voice box containing the vocal cords responsible for phonation. The pharynx (choice D) is the throat region connecting the mouth and the esophagus, playing a role in both digestion and respiration.

5. What type of muscle tissue is responsible for causing the hair follicles to stand on end when you get a goosebump?

• A. Skeletal muscle
• B. Smooth muscle
• C. Cardiac muscle
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is responsible for causing the hair follicles to stand on end when you get a goosebump. This type of muscle tissue is found in the skin attached to hair follicles and contracts in response to stimuli such as cold or fear, causing the hair to stand up. Skeletal muscle is responsible for voluntary movements, and cardiac muscle is found in the heart and is not directly involved in causing goosebumps. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the specific type of muscle tissue responsible for this physiological response.

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