Nursing Elites

1. Which structure in the brain is involved in regulating body temperature?

• A. Cerebellum
• B. Hypothalamus
• C. Medulla oblongata
• D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, the Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature, hunger, thirst, and other autonomic functions, aiding in the maintenance of homeostasis within the body. It acts as the body's thermostat, responding to internal and external temperature changes to keep the body within a narrow temperature range. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The cerebellum is mainly involved in coordinating voluntary movements and balance. The medulla oblongata controls vital functions such as heartbeat and breathing. The pineal gland is responsible for producing melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.

2. Which type of blood vessel carries blood back to the heart?

• A. Arteries
• B. Capillaries
• C. Veins
• D. Lymphatic vessels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Veins are the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart, except for the pulmonary veins which carry oxygenated blood from the lungs. Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Capillaries facilitate the exchange of nutrients and gases between the blood and tissues but do not specifically carry blood back to the heart. Lymphatic vessels are part of the lymphatic system responsible for immune function and do not directly carry blood back to the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is veins.

3. Which gland is known as the 'master gland' of the body?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Adrenal gland
• C. Pituitary gland
• D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pituitary gland, often referred to as the 'master gland,' controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes various hormones that regulate many bodily functions, making it a central and vital component of the endocrine system. The thyroid gland (Choice A) regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice B) produces hormones like adrenaline, and the pineal gland (Choice D) secretes melatonin, but none of these glands are considered the 'master gland' that controls the functions of other endocrine 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. What is the primary function of the integumentary system?

• A. Protecting the body from external damage
• B. Regulating body temperature
• C. Producing vitamin D
• D. Producing red blood cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protecting the body from external damage. The primary function of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is to act as a physical barrier that protects the body from external damage such as pathogens, UV radiation, and mechanical injuries. While the integumentary system does play roles in regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, its main and most crucial function is to provide a protective shield for the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the integumentary system contributes to regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, as well as housing cells involved in the immune response, its primary role is protection.

Similar Questions