Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing specific molecules to pass through while blocking others. This role is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by enabling essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit. While the cell membrane provides some structural support for the cell, its main function is substance transport. Protein and lipid synthesis predominantly occur in organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, and storing genetic material is the nucleus's responsibility. Therefore, choices C (To synthesize proteins and lipids) and D (To store genetic material) are incorrect as these functions are carried out by other cell organelles, not the cell membrane.

2. What do lacteals absorb in the small intestine?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Lipids
• C. Proteins
• D. Nonpolar nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lacteals are lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine that specialize in absorbing dietary lipids. These lipids are then transported into the lymphatic system for further processing and distribution throughout the body. Choice A (Carbohydrates) is incorrect because carbohydrates are primarily digested and absorbed in the small intestine by enzymes and transported to the liver. Choice C (Proteins) is incorrect because proteins are broken down into amino acids and absorbed in the small intestine, mainly by the villi. Choice D (Nonpolar nutrients) is incorrect as it is a vague term and not specific to what lacteals absorb, which are primarily lipids.

3. What is the main function of white blood cells?

• A. Transport oxygen
• B. Fight infection
• C. Produce antibodies
• D. Regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of white blood cells is to fight infection, making choice B the correct answer. White blood cells are a crucial component of the immune system, working to defend the body against pathogens and foreign invaders. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because white blood cells do not primarily transport oxygen, produce antibodies, or regulate body temperature. While some blood cells are involved in these functions, the primary role of white blood cells is to combat infections and maintain the body's immune response.

4. Which type of muscle is responsible for moving the skeleton?

• A. Cardiac muscle
• B. Skeletal muscle
• C. Smooth muscle
• D. Voluntary muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Skeletal muscle is the correct answer as it is responsible for moving the skeleton. Skeletal muscles are under voluntary control, meaning they can be consciously controlled by the individual. Cardiac muscle (Choice A) is found in the heart and is responsible for pumping blood, not moving the skeleton. Smooth muscle (Choice C) is found in internal organs and is responsible for involuntary movements like digestion. Voluntary muscle (Choice D) is not a specific type of muscle; it refers to muscles that can be consciously controlled, which includes skeletal muscles.

5. Which hormone stimulates the release of calcium from bones and increases blood calcium levels?

• A. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
• B. Calcitonin
• C. Growth hormone
• D. Testosterone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the correct answer. PTH stimulates the release of calcium from bones, leading to increased blood calcium levels. It acts on the bones to release calcium into the bloodstream, facilitates the kidneys' reabsorption of calcium, and triggers vitamin D activation to boost calcium absorption from the intestines. Choice B, Calcitonin, is incorrect as it works in opposition to PTH by decreasing blood calcium levels through inhibiting calcium release from bones. Choices C and D, Growth hormone and Testosterone, are not directly involved in calcium homeostasis and do not regulate blood calcium levels through bone calcium release mechanisms.

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