which organ system is primarily responsible for maintaining temperature control

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

1. Which organ system is primarily responsible for maintaining temperature control?

A. The skeletal system
B. The digestive system
C. The nervous system
D. The integumentary system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is primarily responsible for maintaining temperature control in the body. The skin helps regulate body temperature through processes like sweating to cool down and shivering to generate heat. Additionally, blood vessels in the skin can dilate or constrict to control the amount of heat lost or retained by the body. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and keeping the body at a stable temperature. The skeletal system (Choice A) provides structural support and protection to the body but is not directly involved in temperature regulation. The digestive system (Choice B) is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, not for regulating body temperature. The nervous system (Choice C) controls body functions through electrical impulses but is not the primary system responsible for temperature control.

2. Which hormone is released by the adrenal medulla?

A. Cortisol
B. Adrenaline
C. Insulin
D. Somatostatin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), which is released by the adrenal medulla during the body's fight-or-flight response. Adrenaline helps prepare the body for action by increasing heart rate, dilating air passages, and mobilizing glucose and fats for energy, among other physiological responses. Choice A, Cortisol, is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex involved in the stress response and regulation of metabolism. Choice C, Insulin, is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice D, Somatostatin, is a hormone that inhibits the release of several other hormones in the body, but it is not released by the adrenal medulla.

3. What is the primary role of the large intestine?

A. To absorb nutrients
B. To absorb water
C. To break down food
D. To secrete digestive enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb water. The primary role of the large intestine is to absorb water from indigestible food matter. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste for excretion. Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, not the large intestine. Breaking down food and secreting digestive enzymes are functions primarily associated with the stomach and small intestine.

4. What is the function of the medulla oblongata in the brain?

A. To control breathing and heart rate
B. To regulate body temperature
C. To coordinate voluntary movements
D. To process sensory information

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To control breathing and heart rate. The medulla oblongata is a vital part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. These functions are crucial for maintaining life, and the medulla oblongata plays a key role in ensuring the body's survival. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, coordinating voluntary movements is associated with the cerebellum and motor cortex, and processing sensory information is related to the thalamus and sensory cortex, not the medulla oblongata.

5. What is a common finding in a whiplash injury?

A. Cardiopulmonary issues
B. Side-to-side spinal curvature
C. Eventual herniation of discs
D. Traumatic injury to ligaments

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A common finding in a whiplash injury is a traumatic injury to ligaments. Whiplash occurs due to sudden hyperextension and hyperflexion of the neck, leading to strain or tearing of ligaments in the neck. This can manifest as neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. While other complications like cardiopulmonary problems, side-to-side spinal curvature, or eventual herniation of discs are not typically associated with whiplash injuries.