Nursing Elites

1. Which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate?

• A. Cerebrum
• B. Medulla oblongata
• C. Thalamus
• D. Cerebellum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is the correct answer because it is responsible for controlling involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. The cerebrum (Choice A) is primarily associated with higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary movements, not with regulating basic bodily functions like breathing and heart rate. The thalamus (Choice C) serves as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly involved in controlling breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum (Choice D) plays a role in coordination and balance, not in regulating respiratory and cardiac functions.

2. Which part of the digestive system is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is lined with specialized cells that facilitate the absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. While the stomach plays a role in digestion by breaking down food with acid and enzymes, the actual absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine. The esophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach, but it does not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients.

3. Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Cortisol
• D. Thyroxine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glucagon is the correct answer. Produced by the pancreas, glucagon acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels. Glucagon promotes the breakdown of glycogen into glucose in the liver, leading to the release of glucose into the bloodstream. Insulin, on the other hand, lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, not the pancreas, and is involved in stress response and metabolism. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is primarily responsible for regulating metabolism.

4. What is the process of copying DNA called?

• A. Transcription
• B. Translation
• C. Replication
• D. Mutation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Replication. Replication is the process of making an identical copy of DNA. During replication, the DNA double helix unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules. Transcription (choice A) involves the synthesis of mRNA from a DNA template, not the direct copying of DNA. Translation (choice B) is the process of converting mRNA into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein, not copying DNA. Mutation (choice D) refers to changes in the DNA sequence, which can occur during replication but is not the process of copying DNA itself.

5. What is the name for the flexible connection between bones at the wrist or ankle?

• A. Ligament
• B. Tendon
• C. Fascia
• D. Synovial joint

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ligament. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and support. In the case of the wrist or ankle, ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and allowing for proper movement of these joints. Tendons (option B) connect muscles to bones, not bones to bones. Fascia (option C) is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles and other structures, not connecting bones at joints. A synovial joint (option D) is a type of joint that allows for movement between bones, but it is not the flexible connection between bones at the wrist or ankle.

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