HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. Which hormone is released by the posterior pituitary gland?
- A. Oxytocin
- B. Thyroxine
- C. Insulin
- D. ADH
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Oxytocin is the correct answer. It is released by the posterior pituitary gland and plays a vital role in childbirth and lactation. Oxytocin promotes uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding. Choice B, Thyroxine, is incorrect as it is produced by the thyroid gland. Choice C, Insulin, is incorrect as it is produced by the pancreas. Choice D, ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone), is also released by the posterior pituitary gland, but it is not the hormone primarily associated with childbirth and lactation.
2. What is the primary function of the pancreas in digestion?
- A. To absorb nutrients
- B. To secrete digestive enzymes
- C. To produce bile
- D. To store glucose
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To secrete digestive enzymes. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the process of breaking down food particles into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body for nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the pancreas is not to absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store glucose in digestion.
3. Which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate?
- A. Cerebrum
- B. Medulla oblongata
- C. Cerebellum
- D. Hypothalamus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The medulla oblongata, located in the brainstem, plays a crucial role in controlling vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It serves as the control center for automatic functions necessary for survival, making it the correct choice in this scenario. The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary movements, so it does not control basic physiological functions like breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum is mainly involved in coordination and balance, while the hypothalamus regulates body temperature, hunger, and thirst, but not specifically breathing and heart rate.
4. Which of the following hormones is responsible for regulating metabolism?
- A. Insulin
- B. Thyroxine
- C. Glucagon
- D. Cortisol
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland, is the hormone responsible for regulating metabolism. It plays a fundamental role in controlling the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as energy production and utilization. Thyroxine also influences growth and development in the body. Choice A, Insulin, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting the storage of glucose. While insulin has an impact on metabolism, it is not primarily responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate. Choice C, Glucagon, acts in opposition to insulin, stimulating the release of glucose from the liver to increase blood sugar levels. Glucagon primarily targets glucose regulation rather than overall metabolism. Choice D, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, regulation of blood pressure, immune function, and anti-inflammatory actions. While cortisol can have some effects on metabolism during stress responses, it is not the primary hormone responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate.
5. What is the most visible part of the ear?
- A. Ear canal
- B. Cochlea
- C. Organ of Corti
- D. Pinna
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The pinna, also known as the auricle, is the most visible part of the ear. Its external shape and location make it easily noticeable on the side of the head. The pinna helps in capturing sound waves and directing them into the ear canal, where the sound transmission process begins. The other structures listed, the Organ of Corti, Cochlea, and Ear canal, are essential parts of the ear involved in hearing and sound processing, but they are not as visibly prominent as the pinna. Therefore, the correct answer is the pinna because of its external visibility and role in capturing sound waves.
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