The clusters of cells in the pancreas that produce hormones are the .

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: islets of Langerhans. These clusters of cells in the pancreas are responsible for producing hormones such as insulin and glucagon. They play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. The other choices, B: pancreatic medulla, C: pancreatic cortex, and D: nodules, are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the specific clusters of cells in the pancreas responsible for hormone production. It is important to understand the function and location of the islets of Langerhans to grasp the endocrine role of the pancreas.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To digest carbohydrates. The stomach primarily digests proteins through the action of pepsin and hydrochloric acid. Carbohydrates are primarily broken down in the mouth by salivary amylase, not in the stomach. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach does play a role in digesting proteins, temporarily storing food, and neutralizing alkali from the mouth, respectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because hormones are released into the bloodstream by endocrine glands and travel to specific target tissues, where they bind to receptors on the surface or within the cells. This binding triggers a series of cellular responses that regulate various physiological processes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because hormones do not affect target tissues through the digestive system, nervous system, or by secreting mucus. Hormones act specifically by binding to receptors on target cells to initiate their effects.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Release of excessive thyroid hormone into circulation. Rationale: - Palpation of an enlarged thyroid gland can lead to the release of excess thyroid hormone into the circulation due to physical manipulation of the gland. This can result in a condition known as thyroid storm or thyrotoxicosis, characterized by symptoms such as rapid heart rate, sweating, tremors, and potentially life-threatening complications. - Option A) Carotid artery obstruction is incorrect as palpation of the thyroid gland would not directly cause obstruction of the carotid artery. - Option B) Damage to the cricoid cartilage is unlikely during palpation of the thyroid gland as the structures are anatomically separate. - Option D) Hoarseness from pressure on the recurrent laryngeal nerve is a possible complication of thyroid gland manipulation but is not directly related to the release of excessive thyroid hormone. Educational Context: Understanding the potential adverse effects of palpating an enlarged thyroid gland is crucial for healthcare providers, especially for those involved in conducting physical examinations. This knowledge helps in the proper handling of patients with thyroid disorders, preventing unnecessary complications, and ensuring patient safety. It emphasizes the importance of gentle and informed examination techniques to avoid triggering harmful physiological responses.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Rotate injection sites from arms to thighs to abdomen with each injection to prevent lipodystrophies. This instruction is essential because rotating injection sites helps prevent the development of lipodystrophies, which are localized skin changes that can affect insulin absorption and lead to inconsistent blood glucose levels. By rotating sites, the patient ensures that insulin is absorbed consistently and avoids potential complications. Option A is incorrect because pulling back on the plunger after inserting the needle to check for blood is not recommended practice for insulin injections. This technique is used for intramuscular injections to ensure the needle is not in a blood vessel, but for subcutaneous insulin injections, it is unnecessary. Option B is incorrect because while it is important to use the correct size of insulin syringe for accurate dosing, using the same size consistently does not prevent dosing errors. Patients should use the syringe size prescribed by their healthcare provider. Option C is incorrect because cleaning the skin with an alcohol swab before each injection is no longer recommended due to the potential drying effect of alcohol on the skin. It is now advised to wash the injection site with soap and water and allow it to air dry before administering insulin. In an educational context, teaching patients with diabetes about proper insulin administration is crucial for their self-care and management of the condition. Providing clear and accurate instructions, such as rotating injection sites, helps patients maintain optimal insulin absorption, prevent complications, and achieve better control of their blood glucose levels.