HESI A2
Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test
1. Which of the following is an organ of the respiratory system?
- A. Brain
- B. Larynx
- C. Urethra
- D. Pancreas
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The larynx is an essential organ of the respiratory system. It plays a crucial role in producing sound, protecting the trachea from food aspiration, and regulating the airflow to and from the lungs. The brain is part of the nervous system, the urethra is part of the urinary system, and the pancreas is part of the digestive system. Therefore, they are not directly related to the respiratory system's functions.
2. How do the intercostal muscles between the ribs assist with respiration?
- A. By protecting the delicate bronchioles and alveoli
- B. By signaling a decrease in intra-alveolar pressure
- C. By enlarging and reducing the space in the thorax
- D. By maintaining a medial separation between pleurae
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a crucial role in respiration by aiding in the enlargement and reduction of the space in the thorax. During inspiration, these muscles contract, lifting the rib cage, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows the lungs to expand and fill with air. This process directly relates to the expansion of the thorax rather than protecting bronchioles and alveoli (Choice A), signaling intra-alveolar pressure changes (Choice B), or maintaining the separation between pleurae (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.
3. Which cellular structure is responsible for protein synthesis?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Ribosome
- C. Endoplasmic reticulum
- D. Golgi apparatus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ribosome. Ribosomes, the cellular structures located in the cytoplasm or on the endoplasmic reticulum, are responsible for protein synthesis in the cell. They are the sites where mRNA is translated into proteins, making them essential for the synthesis of proteins in all living cells. The other choices, such as the nucleus (choice A), endoplasmic reticulum (choice C), and Golgi apparatus (choice D), are not directly involved in protein synthesis. The nucleus contains DNA and is responsible for housing the genetic material, the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein folding and transport, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins.
4. Which of the following is true about skeletal muscle?
- A. Skeletal muscle makes up 40% of the body's weight.
- B. Skeletal muscle attaches to bones by tendons.
- C. Muscle contraction is not involved in temperature regulation.
- D. Skeletal muscles contract only when in use.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct statement is that skeletal muscle attaches to bones through tendons, enabling movement. Tendons connect muscles to bones and allow the force generated by muscle contraction to be transmitted to the bones, facilitating voluntary movements. Choice A is incorrect because skeletal muscle typically makes up around 40-50% of an individual's body weight, not a fixed 40%. Choice C is incorrect as muscle contraction plays a vital role in temperature regulation by generating heat. Choice D is incorrect as skeletal muscles may have constant low-level contractions even at rest, known as muscle tone.
5. Which hormone is released by the adrenal medulla?
- A. Cortisol
- B. Adrenaline
- C. Insulin
- D. Somatostatin
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), which is released by the adrenal medulla during the body's fight-or-flight response. Adrenaline helps prepare the body for action by increasing heart rate, dilating air passages, and mobilizing glucose and fats for energy, among other physiological responses. Choice A, Cortisol, is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex involved in the stress response and regulation of metabolism. Choice C, Insulin, is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice D, Somatostatin, is a hormone that inhibits the release of several other hormones in the body, but it is not released by the adrenal medulla.
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