Nursing Elites

1. Which gland produces the hormone melatonin?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the Pineal gland. The pineal gland is responsible for producing melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin secretion is influenced by light exposure. Higher levels are observed at night to promote sleep, while lower levels during the day encourage wakefulness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not associated with the production of melatonin. The thyroid gland produces hormones like thyroxine and triiodothyronine, the pituitary gland controls various other glands, and the adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

2. Which vitamin is essential for immune system function?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Vitamin D is the correct answer. It is essential for immune system function as it helps regulate and support the immune response. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, which is necessary for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Vitamin A is important for vision and skin health, not specifically immune function. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties and its role in collagen production, not primarily for immune system function. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, but it is not directly related to immune system function.

3. What is true about caloric intake for the average person?

• A. It should increase with age.
• B. It should decline and then increase with age.
• C. It should decline with age.
• D. It should remain constant over a lifetime.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Caloric intake for the average person typically declines with age due to factors such as changes in metabolism, muscle mass, and physical activity levels. As people age, their metabolism tends to slow down, and they may also experience a decrease in muscle mass and physical activity, leading to a reduced need for calories. Option A is incorrect because caloric intake generally decreases rather than increases with age. Option B is incorrect as it suggests a fluctuation in caloric intake that is not typically seen. Option D is incorrect as caloric needs usually change over a person's lifetime due to various factors.

4. 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).

5. Which mineral is important for the formation of red blood cells?

• A. Selenium
• B. Calcium
• C. Magnesium
• D. Copper

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Copper is crucial for the formation of red blood cells as it is a component of enzymes involved in the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, requires copper for its synthesis. A deficiency in copper can result in anemia due to insufficient production of red blood cells. Selenium, calcium, and magnesium do not play a direct role in red blood cell formation, making them incorrect choices for this question.

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