HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. Which organ system is largely responsible for controlling stress?
- A. The endocrine system
- B. The digestive system
- C. The lymphatic system
- D. The respiratory system
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The endocrine system is largely responsible for controlling stress through the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones help regulate the body's response to stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy production. The endocrine system plays a crucial role in the body's stress response and helps the body adapt to and cope with stressful situations. The digestive system (Choice B) is primarily responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, not controlling stress. The lymphatic system (Choice C) is responsible for immune function and maintaining fluid balance, not controlling stress. The respiratory system (Choice D) is responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, not controlling stress.
2. Why might certain young people be underweight?
- A. They are growing in height faster than they are gaining weight.
- B. They eat little protein and too much fat and sugar.
- C. They eat several meals a day and fail to exercise enough.
- D. They seldom eat a meal that contains foods from all food groups.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Certain young people might be underweight because they are growing in height faster than they are gaining weight. During periods of rapid growth, the body's energy requirements are primarily directed towards height growth rather than weight gain, resulting in some individuals being underweight despite consuming sufficient calories. Choice B is incorrect because the question focuses on reasons related to growth rather than diet composition. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests overeating rather than the specific growth-related issue of height surpassing weight gain. Choice D is incorrect as it addresses nutritional variety rather than the growth dynamics affecting weight.
3. What is the primary function of the adrenal glands?
- A. To produce insulin
- B. To regulate metabolism and stress response
- C. To fight infections
- D. To regulate blood pressure
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the adrenal glands is to regulate metabolism and the body's stress response. The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that play a vital role in managing metabolism, immune response, and stress levels. Choice A is incorrect because insulin is produced by the pancreas, not the adrenal glands. Choice C is incorrect because fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system. Choice D is incorrect as the regulation of blood pressure involves organs like the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, not the adrenal glands.
4. How is pepsin utilized by the body?
- A. To break down proteins
- B. To break down starches
- C. To emulsify fats and oils
- D. To absorb water and nutrients
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.
5. Where does primary peristalsis occur?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Stomach
- C. Nervous system
- D. Small intestine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Primary peristalsis occurs in the esophagus. Peristalsis is the coordinated muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. In the esophagus, primary peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like contractions that push food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the natural and automatic process that occurs to facilitate the movement of food during digestion. The stomach (choice B), nervous system (choice C), and small intestine (choice D) are not the primary sites where peristalsis occurs in the digestive system.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days
- 3,000 Questions with answers
- 30 days access
HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- Actual HESI A2 Questions
- 3,000 questions with answers
- 90 days access