HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 5
If an impulse is traveling from a sense receptor toward the spinal cord, it is traveling along what type of neuron?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sensory neuron. A sensory neuron is responsible for carrying impulses from sensory receptors to the spinal cord. These neurons transmit information about external stimuli from the periphery to the central nervous system for processing and response. Choice A, Motor neuron, is incorrect as motor neurons carry signals from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, enabling movement and secretion. Choice C, Interneuron, is incorrect as interneurons act as connectors between sensory and motor neurons, primarily facilitating communication between the two. Choice D, Bipolar neuron, is incorrect as bipolar neurons are specialized sensory neurons found in some sensory organs like the retina of the eye and the olfactory epithelium.
Question 2 of 5
Which structure of the respiratory system is involved in gas exchange?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The alveoli are the primary site for gas exchange in the respiratory system. These tiny air sacs in the lungs are where oxygen is taken up into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is released from the bloodstream into the lungs to be exhaled. The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that carries air to and from the lungs but is not directly involved in gas exchange. Bronchioles (Choice B) are smaller airway branches that lead to the alveoli but do not participate in gas exchange themselves. The larynx (Choice D) plays a role in producing sound and protecting the airway but is not primarily responsible for gas exchange.
Question 3 of 5
Which is an anterior feature of the human head?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nose is an anterior feature of the human head, located in the frontal part of the face. It plays a vital role in the respiratory system by allowing air to enter and exit the body. Additionally, the nose contains olfactory receptors that enable the sense of smell. The ears, occipital lobe, and temporal lobe are not anterior features of the human head. The ears are located on the sides, the occipital lobe is at the back of the head, and the temporal lobe is on the sides and base of the cerebral cortex.
Question 4 of 5
What is the primary hormone secreted by the thyroid gland?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: T4. The primary hormone secreted by the thyroid gland is thyroxine, also known as T4. T4 plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and energy levels in the body. It is converted into the more active form, triiodothyronine (T3), which exerts most of the biological effects of thyroid hormones. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Oxytocin is not produced by the thyroid gland but by the pituitary gland, TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid gland, and adrenaline is produced by the adrenal glands, not the thyroid gland.
Question 5 of 5
Enlargement of the thyroid, commonly known as a goiter, might be expected to affect ___________.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Enlargement of the thyroid, known as a goiter, can compress the nearby structures in the neck, including the esophagus. This compression can lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a sensation of pressure in the throat. Therefore, an enlarged thyroid gland is expected to affect swallowing. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a goiter primarily affects structures in the neck due to its physical enlargement, rather than directly impacting insulin levels, sleep, or digestion.