HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. Which hormone is produced by the pineal gland?
- A. Corticosteroid
- B. Oxytocin
- C. Prolactin
- D. Melatonin
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Melatonin is the hormone produced by the pineal gland. It plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and is instrumental in maintaining the body's circadian rhythm. Melatonin production is triggered by darkness and inhibited by light, aiding in signaling the body when it is time to sleep. Corticosteroid, oxytocin, and prolactin are hormones produced by other glands in the body and are not associated with the pineal gland. Therefore, they are incorrect choices for this question.
2. Which hormone is released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?
- A. Insulin
- B. Glucagon
- C. Cortisol
- D. Somatostatin
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is the hormone released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, helping to decrease blood glucose levels and store excess glucose for energy or future use. Glucagon, on the other hand, raises blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen into glucose. Cortisol and somatostatin do not directly regulate blood glucose levels in the same manner as insulin and glucagon.
3. Which vitamin is essential for the formation of red blood cells?
- A. Vitamin A
- B. Vitamin B12
- C. Vitamin C
- D. Vitamin D
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin B12 is the correct answer. It is crucial for the formation and maturation of red blood cells, playing a vital role in preventing megaloblastic anemia. Additionally, Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining nerve function. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis and immune health, and Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not play a direct role in the formation of red blood cells.
4. Which type of blood cell is primarily responsible for fighting infections?
- A. Red blood cells
- B. White blood cells
- C. Platelets
- D. Plasma
Correct answer: B
Rationale: White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune system by primarily combating infections. These cells can identify and destroy pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, helping the body defend against illnesses and maintain overall health. Red blood cells are responsible for oxygen transport, platelets aid in blood clotting, and plasma carries various components throughout the circulatory system, but none of these functions involve fighting infections like white blood cells do.
5. Where is a herniated lumbar disc most likely to cause pain?
- A. Along the radial nerve
- B. Within the spinal cord
- C. Along the sciatic nerve
- D. Along the tibial nerve
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A herniated lumbar disc is most likely to cause pain along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a long nerve that extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. Compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the leg. This condition is commonly referred to as sciatica. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a herniated lumbar disc typically affects the sciatic nerve, not the radial nerve, spinal cord, or tibial nerve.
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