Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pancreas is the correct answer because it performs two vital functions: producing bicarbonate ions to neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine and secreting insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. The stomach is incorrect because its primary function is to break down and digest food, not produce bicarbonate ions or insulin. The large and small intestines are also incorrect because their primary functions are to absorb nutrients and water from food, rather than producing bicarbonate ions or insulin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Protein catabolism increases in conditions like severe burns because the body breaks down muscle protein to provide energy for healing. Severe obesity does not necessarily increase protein catabolism; instead, it is more related to excessive fat accumulation. Hypothyroidism may lead to a decrease in metabolic rate but does not directly increase protein catabolism. Food allergies trigger an immune response to specific foods but do not directly impact protein catabolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Quit smoking.' Smoking has been shown to lower HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) levels, and quitting can help to improve these levels. HDL is often referred to as 'good cholesterol' because it helps to remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. While monitoring blood glucose levels, controlling blood pressure, and taking fish oil supplements can contribute to overall health and wellbeing, they do not directly increase HDL levels in the same way that quitting smoking does. Therefore, quitting smoking is the most effective way for Mrs. Smith to increase her HDL levels as advised by the nurse.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pancreas is the correct answer because it performs two vital functions: producing bicarbonate ions to neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine and secreting insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. The stomach is incorrect because its primary function is to break down and digest food, not produce bicarbonate ions or insulin. The large and small intestines are also incorrect because their primary functions are to absorb nutrients and water from food, rather than producing bicarbonate ions or insulin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Salivary amylase. Salivary amylase is an enzyme produced by the parotid gland that initiates starch digestion in the mouth. It helps break down starch into maltose, a simpler sugar. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because sucrase, maltase, and lactase are enzymes involved in the digestion of disaccharides like sucrose, maltose, and lactose, respectively, in the small intestine, not in the saliva.