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. What is the function of the kidneys in the urinary system?
- A. To filter blood and remove waste
- B. To produce red blood cells
- C. To regulate blood pressure
- D. To absorb water
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To filter blood and remove waste.' The kidneys play a crucial role in the urinary system by filtering blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. This process helps maintain the body's internal balance by regulating electrolyte levels and controlling blood pressure. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the kidneys do not produce red blood cells (bone marrow does), regulate blood pressure directly (although they indirectly influence it through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system), or absorb water (they regulate water balance but do not absorb water).
3. What is the function of the small intestine?
- A. To store bile
- B. To absorb nutrients
- C. To digest food
- D. To produce enzymes
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Therefore, the correct function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients. Choice A is incorrect because the gallbladder stores bile, not the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect because the digestion process primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice D is incorrect because while the small intestine does play a role in enzyme production, its primary function is nutrient absorption.
4. What is the function of the liver in the digestive system?
- A. To store glucose
- B. To produce bile
- C. To detoxify harmful substances
- D. To absorb nutrients
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To produce bile. The liver's primary function in the digestive system is to produce bile. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. It helps emulsify fats, making it easier for enzymes to break them down into smaller molecules for absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as storing glucose is primarily done in the liver for energy maintenance, detoxifying harmful substances is a function of the liver related to metabolism but not specifically in the digestive system, and absorbing nutrients is mainly done in the small intestine rather than the liver.
5. What is the function of the gallbladder?
- A. To produce bile
- B. To store and concentrate bile
- C. To detoxify harmful substances
- D. To break down fats
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To store and concentrate bile. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. It helps in emulsifying fats and facilitating their breakdown by enzymes for better absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce bile (it is produced by the liver), detoxify harmful substances, or directly break down fats. Its main role is to store and concentrate bile before releasing it into the small intestine.
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