HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. Which type of blood cell is responsible for carrying oxygen?
- A. Red blood cells
- B. White blood cells
- C. Platelets
- D. Plasma cells
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Red blood cells. Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are specialized cells designed to transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs throughout the body. These cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules in the lungs and releases them in other parts of the body where oxygen is needed for cellular respiration. White blood cells (choice B) are part of the immune system, responsible for fighting infections. Platelets (choice C) are involved in blood clotting. Plasma cells (choice D) are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies to help the body fight off infections.
2. In the human body, the ribs are ___________ to the lungs.
- A. medial
- B. superior
- C. anterior
- D. deep
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: anterior.' The term 'anterior' refers to a position in front of or toward the front of the body. In this case, the ribs are positioned in front of the lungs when considering the anatomical position. The term 'medial' means toward the midline of the body, 'superior' means above or higher in position, and 'deep' refers to a position farther from the surface or external part. Therefore, the most appropriate choice is 'anterior' when describing the relationship between the ribs and the lungs.
3. Which structure is responsible for carrying oxygen to the cells?
- A. Hemoglobin
- B. Plasma
- C. Platelets
- D. Red blood cells
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Hemoglobin, located in red blood cells, is responsible for binding to oxygen in the lungs and transporting it to tissues throughout the body. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, making them the primary carrier of oxygen to cells. Hemoglobin is the correct answer because it is the protein within red blood cells that directly binds to oxygen for transport. Plasma is the liquid component of blood and does not carry oxygen. Platelets are responsible for blood clotting and have no role in oxygen transport. While red blood cells do carry oxygen, it is specifically the hemoglobin within them that performs this function.
4. How do the intercostal muscles between the ribs assist with respiration?
- A. By protecting the delicate bronchioles and alveoli
- B. By signaling a decrease in intra-alveolar pressure
- C. By enlarging and reducing the space in the thorax
- D. By maintaining a medial separation between pleurae
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a crucial role in respiration by aiding in the enlargement and reduction of the space in the thorax. During inspiration, these muscles contract, lifting the rib cage, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows the lungs to expand and fill with air. This process directly relates to the expansion of the thorax rather than protecting bronchioles and alveoli (Choice A), signaling intra-alveolar pressure changes (Choice B), or maintaining the separation between pleurae (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.
5. Which neurotransmitter controls sleep, mood, and appetite?
- A. Serotonin
- B. Oxytocin
- C. Cortisol
- D. Aldosterone
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Serotonin is the correct answer. It is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Serotonin functions to stabilize and control these physiological processes in the brain and body. Imbalances in serotonin levels are commonly linked to conditions like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Oxytocin (Choice B) is more associated with social bonding and childbirth. Cortisol (Choice C) is a stress hormone, and while it can influence mood and appetite in response to stress, it is not primarily responsible for regulating these functions. Aldosterone (Choice D) is a hormone that regulates electrolyte balance and blood pressure, not mood, sleep, and appetite.
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