Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following structures is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses in the nervous system?

• A. Neuron
• B. Axon
• C. Myelin
• D. Dendrite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Neuron. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit electrical impulses in the nervous system. While the axon is the part responsible for conducting these impulses over long distances, it is the neuron as a whole that is ultimately responsible for transmitting electrical impulses. Myelin is a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates axons, speeding up signal transmission. Dendrites, on the other hand, receive signals from other neurons. Therefore, although the axon plays a significant role in transmission, the neuron is the fundamental unit responsible for transmitting electrical impulses in the nervous system.

2. A researcher is studying the response of bacteria to a certain chemical. In three experiments, the bacteria swim towards the chemical, and in one experiment, the bacteria swim away from it. What would be the most appropriate next step for the researcher?

• A. Report only the first three experiments.
• B. Report all the experiments, but refrain from making any conclusions.
• C. Repeat the experiment several more times and apply a statistical analysis to the data.
• D. Repeat the experiment, adding a new chemical to determine its effect on the bacteria.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Repeating the experiment multiple times and applying statistical analysis would help ensure the results are reliable. By doing so, the researcher can validate the observed trends and determine the significance of the bacteria's response to the chemical. This approach would enhance the credibility of the findings and allow for more robust conclusions to be drawn. Reporting only the first three experiments (Choice A) would overlook critical data that could provide a comprehensive understanding of the bacteria's response. Refraining from making any conclusions (Choice B) would not utilize the available data effectively. Adding a new chemical in a repeated experiment (Choice D) would deviate from focusing on analyzing the response to the original chemical, introducing unnecessary variables.

3. In the context of cholesterol levels, LDL cholesterol is often referred to as:

• A. HDL or "good" cholesterol.
• B. LDL or "bad" cholesterol.
• C. Total cholesterol, encompassing both LDL and HDL.
• D. VLDL, a type of triglyceride transported in the bloodstream.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. LDL cholesterol is considered harmful as it contributes to the formation of plaque in blood vessels, whereas HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL from the arteries. Choice A is incorrect because HDL is known as "good" cholesterol, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to total cholesterol, which includes LDL, HDL, and other lipids. Choice D is incorrect as VLDL is a different type of lipoprotein that carries triglycerides and is not specifically related to LDL cholesterol.

4. What is the function of valves in arteries?

• A. To maintain high blood pressure for the proper diffusion of nutrients in capillaries.
• B. To prevent backflow of blood due to high pressure away from the heart.
• C. As a vestigial trait from evolution, like the appendix, that serves no purpose.
• D. Valves are absent in arteries but present in veins.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Valves in arteries serve the crucial function of preventing backflow of blood. Arteries carry blood at high pressure away from the heart, and the valves ensure that blood flows in one direction, towards the capillaries, to maintain efficient circulation. Without these valves, there would be a risk of blood flowing backward, compromising the effectiveness of blood circulation in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A incorrectly suggests that valves maintain high blood pressure for nutrient diffusion in capillaries, which is not their function. Choice C inaccurately compares valves to vestigial traits, like the appendix, implying they serve no purpose, which is untrue. Choice D is incorrect as valves are indeed present in arteries to regulate blood flow, not just in veins.

5. What is the role of the large intestine in the digestive system?

• A. To break down proteins
• B. To absorb water and form feces
• C. To digest fats
• D. To neutralize stomach acid

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The large intestine plays a crucial role in absorbing water from indigestible food matter and forming feces for elimination. Choice A is incorrect because the breakdown of proteins primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice C is incorrect as the digestion of fats primarily occurs in the small intestine. Choice D is incorrect as neutralizing stomach acid is mainly the function of the stomach lining and not the large intestine.

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