Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is the region of the brain that controls and regulates autonomic functions such as respiration, digestion, and heart rate?

• A. cerebellum
• B. medulla oblongata
• C. temporal lobe
• D. cerebral cortex

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is the correct answer. It is the region of the brain located at the base of the brainstem responsible for regulating autonomic functions such as respiration, digestion, and heart rate. These functions are essential for maintaining life. The cerebellum (Option A), temporal lobe (Option C), and cerebral cortex (Option D) do not control these autonomic functions. The cerebellum is mainly involved in coordination and balance, the temporal lobe is associated with memory and hearing, and the cerebral cortex is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and decision-making.

2. Which statement is true regarding the process of digestion?

• A. Digestion of starch begins in the mouth.
• B. Amylase is produced by the stomach to help break down food in the upper intestine.
• C. The di- and tri-saccharides produced in early digestion are absorbed through the intestinal wall.
• D. Proteases are responsible for breaking down starches.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'Digestion of starch begins in the mouth' is correct. Salivary amylase, an enzyme produced in the salivary glands, initiates the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars like maltose in the mouth before further digestion in the stomach. This initial breakdown of starch is crucial in the digestion of carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. Choice B is incorrect because amylase is produced in the salivary glands, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because di- and tri-saccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides before absorption. Choice D is incorrect because proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, not starches.

3. Which of the following functions is NOT performed by the integumentary system, the skin?

• A. Protect internal tissues from injury
• B. Waterproof the body
• C. Help regulate body temperature
• D. Return fluid to the blood vessels

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The integumentary system, which includes the skin, performs various functions like protecting internal tissues from injury, waterproofing the body, and helping regulate body temperature. The function of returning fluid to the blood vessels is primarily associated with the lymphatic system, not the integumentary system. The skin contributes to fluid balance by regulating sweating and preventing excessive water loss, but it does not directly return fluid to the blood vessels, making this the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are functions directly related to the integumentary system and are essential for maintaining the body's overall health and well-being.

4. Which process allows for the movement of large molecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides, across the cell membrane?

• A. Endocytosis
• B. Exocytosis
• C. Active transport
• D. Facilitated diffusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Endocytosis is the process by which cells engulf large molecules or particles by wrapping the cell membrane around them to form a vesicle that is brought into the cell. This mechanism facilitates the movement of large molecules like proteins and polysaccharides across the cell membrane. Exocytosis involves the release of large molecules or particles from the cell, opposite to the scenario described in the question. Active transport requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient and is not primarily used for transporting proteins and polysaccharides. Facilitated diffusion entails the movement of molecules aided by transport proteins but is not the primary mechanism for transporting large molecules such as proteins and polysaccharides.

5. What is the main function of the small intestine?

• A. To store food and break it down into smaller pieces
• B. To absorb nutrients into the bloodstream
• C. To produce enzymes that help digest food
• D. To eliminate waste products from the body

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is a crucial part of the digestive system responsible for absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream. This absorption primarily occurs through the villi lining the small intestine, which increases the surface area available for nutrient absorption. Nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed into the bloodstream to support various bodily functions such as energy production, growth, and repair. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately depict the primary function of the small intestine, which is nutrient absorption.

Similar Questions