Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a function of the skeletal system?

• A. To produce red blood cells
• B. To provide structural support
• C. To transport nutrients
• D. To store fat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To provide structural support. The skeletal system is primarily responsible for supporting the body's structure, protecting internal organs, facilitating movement, and storing minerals. While bones do play a role in producing red blood cells (hematopoiesis) in the bone marrow, the main function related to the question is providing structural support. Choices C and D are incorrect as the skeletal system is not involved in transporting nutrients or storing fat. The main functions of the skeletal system are related to support, protection, movement facilitation, mineral storage, and hematopoiesis.

2. During embryonic development, most vertebrates exhibit structures called pharyngeal pouches. These pouches eventually develop into different structures in various vertebrate groups, such as the human jaw and inner ear. Pharyngeal pouches are an example of:

• A. Analogous structures with different evolutionary origins but similar functions
• B. Homologous structures with a common evolutionary origin but diverse functions
• C. Vestigial structures that no longer serve a vital function in some organisms
• D. Atavisms, the reappearance of a trait absent in recent generations

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pharyngeal pouches in vertebrates are an example of homologous structures because they share a common evolutionary origin. Despite developing into different structures in various vertebrate groups, such as the jaw and inner ear in humans, these structures originated from the same ancestral feature. This concept of homology highlights the evolutionary relationship between different species and how structures can be modified over time to serve different functions while retaining a common origin. Choice A is incorrect because analogous structures have similar functions but different evolutionary origins, which does not apply to pharyngeal pouches. Choice C is incorrect as vestigial structures are remnants of features that were functional in ancestors but have reduced or lost their original function, which is not the case for pharyngeal pouches. Choice D is incorrect because atavisms refer to the reappearance of traits absent in recent generations, which is not the characteristic of pharyngeal pouches.

3. What are the components of the male internal genitalia and their functions?

• A. Prostate gland: produces hormones
• B. Testes: produce sperm and testosterone
• C. Epididymis: stores and matures sperm
• D. Urethra: conducts urine and semen out of the body

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The testes play a crucial role in male reproduction by producing sperm and testosterone. Sperm production is essential for fertility, while testosterone is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics. The epididymis functions to store and mature sperm, allowing them to become motile. The prostate gland, not listed among the choices, secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. The urethra serves the purpose of conducting both urine and semen out of the body, enabling the excretion of waste and reproductive fluids.

4. What are the tiny blood vessels that transport blood from arteries to veins within the body?

• A. Arterioles
• B. Capillaries
• C. Venules
• D. Veins

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Capillaries. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels that connect arterioles (small arteries) with venules (small veins). They enable the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and tissues. Arterioles are small arteries that carry blood away from the heart, while venules are small veins that carry blood towards the heart. Veins are larger blood vessels that transport blood back to the heart. Therefore, capillaries specifically serve as the vessels responsible for the exchange of substances between the blood and body tissues.

5. Which blood component is chiefly responsible for clotting?

• A. Platelets
• B. Red blood cells
• C. Antigens
• D. Plasma cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Platelets. Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in clotting. When there is an injury, platelets adhere to the site and release chemicals that help form a clot to prevent excessive bleeding. Red blood cells transport oxygen, antigens are substances that trigger an immune response, and plasma cells are a type of white blood cell involved in producing antibodies, none of which are primarily responsible for clotting.

Similar Questions