Nursing Elites

1. Which hormone regulates the sleep-wake cycle?

• A. Cortisol
• B. Melatonin
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Melatonin. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It helps signal to the body when it's time to sleep and wake up, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy sleep pattern. Choice A, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, not specifically in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Choice C, Thyroxine, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, not the sleep-wake cycle. Choice D, Insulin, is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle.

2. What is the primary function of coronary arteries?

• A. Delivering oxygenated blood throughout the body.
• B. Supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle itself.
• C. Carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
• D. Regulating blood pressure through vasoconstriction and vasodilation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of coronary arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle itself. The heart is a muscle that needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Coronary arteries branch off the aorta and specifically deliver oxygenated blood to the heart muscle, ensuring its proper function. Choice A is incorrect because coronary arteries do not deliver blood throughout the entire body but specifically to the heart. Choice C is incorrect as coronary arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Choice D is incorrect as the primary function of the coronary arteries is not to regulate blood pressure but rather to provide oxygenated blood to the heart muscle.

3. During which phase of the cardiac cycle do the atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles?

• A. Atrial diastole
• B. Ventricular systole
• C. Atrial systole
• D. Ventricular diastole

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Atrial systole is the phase of the cardiac cycle during which the atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles. This occurs after the atria have been filled during atrial diastole. Ventricular systole refers to the phase when the ventricles contract to push blood out of the heart, not when the atria contract. Ventricular diastole is the phase when the ventricles relax and fill with blood, not when the atria contract. Therefore, the correct answer is atrial systole as it specifically describes the atrial contraction phase.

4. What is the difference between isometric and isotonic muscle contractions?

• A. Isometric involves movement, while isotonic does not.
• B. Isotonic involves shortening of muscle, while isometric maintains length.
• C. Isometric uses more energy, while isotonic uses less.
• D. Isotonic involves smooth muscle, while isometric involves skeletal muscle.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Isometric contractions occur when the muscle generates tension without changing its length, while isotonic contractions involve the muscle changing length to move a load. In isotonic contractions, the muscle shortens to move a load, whereas in isometric contractions, the muscle contracts to hold a position without movement. Choice A is incorrect because isometric contractions do not involve movement, while choice C is incorrect as isotonic contractions typically require more energy due to movement. Choice D is incorrect because the type of muscle involved (smooth or skeletal) is not the defining factor between isometric and isotonic contractions.

5. Which class of hormones is most likely to be released after a serious injury?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Luteinizing hormone
• D. Endorphins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Endorphins are the class of hormones most likely to be released after a serious injury. Endorphins are the body's natural pain relievers and are produced in response to stress or pain, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of well-being. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter, not a hormone. Oxytocin is mainly involved in childbirth and lactation. Luteinizing hormone is involved in reproductive functions such as ovulation. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in the context of a hormone release following a serious injury.

Similar Questions