which hormone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test

1. Which hormone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy?

A. FSH
B. Estrogen
C. LH
D. Progesterone

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Progesterone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy. It promotes the growth of blood vessels and glands in the endometrial lining, making it conducive for implantation and supporting early pregnancy. While estrogen helps in thickening the endometrium, it is progesterone that plays a crucial role in preparing it for pregnancy. FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) is involved in stimulating ovarian follicles, not directly in preparing the endometrium. LH (Luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation but does not primarily prepare the endometrium for pregnancy.

2. To which system do the ovaries belong?

A. skeletal system
B. nervous system
C. lymphatic system
D. reproductive system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: reproductive system. The ovaries are essential organs of the female reproductive system. They play a vital role in producing eggs and secreting hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The skeletal system (choice A) consists of bones and tissues that support the body, the nervous system (choice B) controls body functions and responses, and the lymphatic system (choice C) helps the body fight off infections. Therefore, the ovaries belong to the reproductive system.

3. A person who has damage to their ulnar nerve will have decreased sensation in which part of the body?

A. Hand
B. Arm
C. Leg
D. Foot

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Damage to the ulnar nerve typically results in decreased sensation in the hand, particularly affecting the little finger and half of the ring finger. The ulnar nerve innervates the hand and is responsible for providing sensation to these areas. This nerve does not extend to the leg or foot, so choices C and D are incorrect. While the ulnar nerve travels through the arm, its primary sensory impact is felt in the hand, making choice B less specific and therefore not the best answer.

4. 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.

5. Which of the heart's four chambers is the largest and the strongest?

A. Right atrium
B. Left ventricle
C. Right ventricle
D. Left atrium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The left ventricle is the largest and strongest chamber of the heart. It pumps oxygenated blood to the body, making it vital for systemic circulation. The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body, the right ventricle pumps this blood to the lungs, and the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.