Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following statements best defines an organelle?

• A. Layer of polysaccharides outside the plasma membrane of cells.
• B. Abnormal infectious proteins.
• C. Specialized structures within a cell.
• D. Collection of tissues used to serve a specific function.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Specialized structures within a cell.' An organelle is a specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function. Organelles are membrane-bound structures found within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, each performing distinct roles that contribute to the overall functioning of the cell. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Option A describes the glycocalyx, which is a layer of polysaccharides outside the plasma membrane of cells. Option B refers to prions, abnormal infectious proteins. Option D defines an organ, a collection of tissues used to serve a specific function, rather than an organelle within a cell.

2. Which term describes a substance's ability to undergo a change that transforms it into a different substance?

• A. Density
• B. Mass
• C. Reactivity
• D. Volume

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Reactivity refers to a substance's ability to undergo a change that transforms it into a different substance through a chemical reaction. In this context, reactivity specifically refers to the chemical behavior of a substance. Density, mass, and volume are physical properties of a substance and do not describe its ability to undergo a chemical change. Density is the mass per unit volume, mass is the amount of matter in an object, and volume is the amount of space occupied by an object. Therefore, reactivity is the most appropriate term to describe a substance's ability to undergo a transformation into a different substance.

3. Where is the primary site for nutrient absorption from digested food in the human digestive system?

• A. Esophagus
• B. Large intestine
• C. Small intestine
• D. Stomach

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the human digestive system. It is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients from food occurs. The walls of the small intestine are lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and into the bloodstream to be transported to cells throughout the body for energy and other functions. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach and plays a role in swallowing, not nutrient absorption. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter after the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The stomach mainly functions in the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food through muscular contractions and the secretion of digestive enzymes.

4. What is the role of the diaphragm in the respiratory system?

• A. To regulate blood pressure
• B. To contract and expand the lungs
• C. To produce red blood cells
• D. To absorb oxygen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To contract and expand the lungs. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in the respiratory system by contracting and expanding the lungs. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs. Conversely, when it relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the thoracic cavity volume and pushing air out of the lungs. This process is essential for breathing and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The diaphragm is not involved in regulating blood pressure, producing red blood cells, or absorbing oxygen. Its primary function is to aid in respiration by facilitating breathing through its contraction and relaxation movements.

5. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

• A. Heartbeat
• B. Respiration
• C. Electrolyte and water balance
• D. Homeostasis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

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