Nursing Elites

1. Which hormone is responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles and is influenced by light exposure?

• A. Melatonin
• B. Cortisol
• C. Estrogen
• D. Glucagon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, also known as the circadian rhythm. Its production is influenced by light exposure, with levels increasing in the evening in response to darkness, signaling the body that it is time to sleep. Choice B, cortisol, is a stress hormone and does not directly regulate sleep-wake cycles. Choice C, estrogen, is a sex hormone and is not primarily involved in regulating sleep. Choice D, glucagon, is a hormone that increases blood glucose levels and is not related to sleep-wake cycles.

2. Which lifestyle practice can weaken the immune system?

• A. Getting enough sleep
• B. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• C. Managing stress levels
• D. Frequent smoking

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Frequent smoking can weaken the immune system by damaging immune cells and impairing their function. Smoking increases the risk of respiratory infections and other illnesses, negatively impacting immune health. Therefore, frequent smoking is a lifestyle practice that can weaken the immune system. Choices A, B, and C are all beneficial practices that support a healthy immune system. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and managing stress levels are important for maintaining optimal immune function and overall well-being.

3. What does the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom determine?

• A. Mass number
• B. Atomic number
• C. Isotope
• D. Valence electron count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is referred to as the atomic number. This atomic number is crucial as it uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. The mass number, on the other hand, represents the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. Isotopes are variants of elements with the same number of protons but differing numbers of neutrons. Valence electron count pertains to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, which influences its chemical behavior.

4. Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through which of the following structures?

• A. Schwann cell
• B. ganglion
• C. synapse
• D. axon

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters send chemical messages across the gap between one neuron and another through a structure called the synapse. The synapse is a specialized junction where the axon of one neuron meets the dendrite or cell body of another neuron. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron and travel across the synaptic cleft to bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, transmitting the signal between the two neurons. Choice A, Schwann cell, is incorrect as Schwann cells are responsible for producing myelin sheath around axons in the peripheral nervous system, not for transmitting neurotransmitters between neurons. Choice B, ganglion, is incorrect as ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system and do not directly participate in the transmission of chemical messages between neurons. Choice D, axon, is incorrect as the axon is a long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body and towards the axon terminals, where neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, but it is not the structure across which neurotransmitters travel to communicate between neurons.

5. What are the two main divisions of the skeletal system?

• A. Upper and lower body bones
• B. Axial and appendicular skeleton
• C. Long and short bones
• D. Compact and spongy bone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skeletal system is divided into two main divisions: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton comprises the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, providing structural support and protection for vital organs. On the other hand, the appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the upper and lower limbs, shoulder girdle, and pelvic girdle, facilitating movement and flexibility. The divisions are based on the location and function of the bones within the skeletal system, making choices A, C, and D incorrect as they do not represent the primary divisions of the skeletal system.

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