The chief function of the serum albumin in the blood is to:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Serum albumin, the most abundant plasma protein, maintains colloidal osmotic pressure (about 25 mmHg), keeping fluid in the bloodstream. Antibodies are from globulins, fibrinogen is a separate protein, and waste removal is primarily a kidney function.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: There are 12 recognized clotting factors (I-XIII, missing VI) in the coagulation cascade, essential for normal clot formation, though not all are always active in every pathway.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Edema and hyperpigmented skin of the lower extremities (D) are classic signs of venous disorders (e.g., chronic venous insufficiency) due to poor venous return. Generalized edema with shortness of breath (A) suggests heart failure, red painful skin (B) indicates a rash or infection, and strong pulses (C) contradict venous issues, which often weaken pulses. (Source: Document, p. 3)

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cardiac output (CO = HR × SV) is determined by all listed factors : heart rate (A), preload (B) affects stroke volume (SV), afterload (C) resists SV, and myocardial contractility (D) influences SV. All contribute to CO.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The pulmonary veins (C) carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium. The aorta (A) carries blood from the left ventricle, pulmonary artery (B) from the right ventricle to lungs, and superior vena cava (D) to the right atrium.