HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. What is the first step in pulmonary circulation?
- A. Blood moves toward the heart through the pulmonary veins.
- B. The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs.
- C. Carbon dioxide is exchanged for oxygen.
- D. Oxygenated blood moves through the aorta.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs. The first step in pulmonary circulation involves the right ventricle of the heart pumping deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary artery then carries this deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. This step is crucial for the exchange of carbon dioxide for oxygen to occur in the lungs, facilitating the oxygenation of blood. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the initial step in pulmonary circulation. Option A refers to blood moving away from the heart, option C describes the gas exchange process that occurs in the lungs but not as the first step, and option D mentions oxygenated blood moving through the aorta, which happens after oxygenation in the lungs.
2. What is the primary function of the digestive system?
- A. To transport oxygen
- B. To break down food and absorb nutrients
- C. To produce hormones
- D. To transport blood
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food into smaller molecules and absorb nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These nutrients are then utilized by the body for energy, growth, and repair. The digestive system plays a crucial role in the process of extracting essential components from food and distributing them to the body's cells through the bloodstream. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing hormones, and transporting blood are functions associated with other body systems like the respiratory system, endocrine system, and circulatory system, respectively, not the digestive system.
3. Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?
- A. Cerebellum
- B. Cerebrum
- C. Medulla oblongata
- D. Brainstem
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. Located at the back of the brain, the cerebellum plays a crucial role in controlling balance, coordination, and fine motor movements. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to coordinate voluntary movements and maintain posture. Damage to the cerebellum can result in issues with balance, coordination, and muscle tone. The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and problem-solving, the medulla oblongata controls vital autonomic functions like breathing and heartbeat, and the brainstem serves as a pathway for neural fibers traveling to and from the brain.
4. Which vitamin is essential for blood clotting?
- A. Vitamin C
- B. Vitamin K
- C. Vitamin D
- D. Vitamin B12
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting as it is necessary for the synthesis of proteins involved in the coagulation process, such as clotting factors. Without sufficient Vitamin K, the blood may not clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding. Vitamin C is important for collagen synthesis and immune function, Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health, and Vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, when it comes to blood clotting, Vitamin K plays a vital role.
5. Which enzyme functions to break down lactose, a specific sugar found in milk and dairy products?
- A. Catalase
- B. Lipase
- C. Protease
- D. Lactase
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Lactase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products. When lactase breaks down lactose, it splits it into two simpler sugars, glucose, and galactose, which can then be absorbed and used by the body. Catalase is involved in breaking down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Lipase breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect for the specific breakdown of lactose.
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