which gland produces hormones that regulate sleep

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. 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.

2. The epidermis is classified as which of the following?

A. Cell
B. Tissue
C. Organ
D. System

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The epidermis is classified as a tissue, more specifically as a layer of cells that form the outermost part of the skin. It is composed of multiple layers of cells that protect underlying tissues and regulate various functions related to the skin. Choice A, Cell, is incorrect because the epidermis is not just a single cell but rather a collection of cells. Choice C, Organ, is incorrect because the epidermis is not an organ on its own but rather a part of an organ, the skin. Choice D, System, is incorrect because the epidermis is not a system but rather a component of the integumentary system.

3. Which type of blood vessel carries blood back to the heart?

A. Arteries
B. Capillaries
C. Veins
D. Lymphatic vessels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Veins are the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart, except for the pulmonary veins which carry oxygenated blood from the lungs. Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Capillaries facilitate the exchange of nutrients and gases between the blood and tissues but do not specifically carry blood back to the heart. Lymphatic vessels are part of the lymphatic system responsible for immune function and do not directly carry blood back to the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is veins.

4. What is the average normal body temperature in degrees Celsius?

A. 30°C
B. 32°C
C. 35°C
D. 37°C

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The average normal body temperature in degrees Celsius is 37°C. This temperature is considered the standard measurement for the human body under normal conditions. It is essential to know this baseline temperature for monitoring health and detecting abnormalities such as fever. Choice A, 30°C, is too low for the average normal body temperature. Choice B, 32°C, is also below the standard normal body temperature. Choice C, 35°C, is closer but still lower than the average normal body temperature of 37°C.

5. What is the primary function of the large intestine?

A. To absorb water and form solid waste
B. To produce digestive enzymes
C. To secrete hormones
D. To transport nutrients

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter and form solid waste (feces) for excretion. This process helps in reabsorbing water and electrolytes, resulting in the formation of feces by compacting the waste material. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the large intestine is not responsible for producing digestive enzymes, secreting hormones, or transporting nutrients. These functions are typically associated with other parts of the digestive system.