The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that perform several vital functions. Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the kidneys?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The kidneys do not produce red blood cells. This function is carried out by the bone marrow. The primary functions of the kidneys include filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining water balance in the body. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, not in the kidneys. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they are primary functions of the kidneys, which involve filtering waste products, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining water balance in the body, respectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Edema is caused by the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues, leading to swelling. Poor circulation or blockage in the lymphatic system can contribute to the development of edema by impairing the body's ability to properly drain fluid. While regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and proper hydration are crucial for overall health, they are not direct causes of edema. Poor circulation or blockage in the lymphatic system disrupts the normal balance of fluid in the body, resulting in edema. Therefore, the correct factor that can contribute to edema is poor circulation or blockage in the lymphatic system.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Conjugation is a process in which genetic material is transferred between two bacterial cells through a conjugation tube. It does not involve the division of a single-celled organism into two identical daughter cells. B) Binary fission is the process by which a single-celled organism, such as a bacterium, divides into two identical daughter cells. This is a common method of reproduction in prokaryotic organisms. C) Endocytosis is a cellular process in which cells engulf external materials by wrapping them in a vesicle. It is not a method of cell division. D) Mitosis is a type of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells, leading to the production of two daughter cells with identical genetic material. However, the question specifically refers to a single-celled organism, which typically undergoes binary fission for reproduction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Phagocytes. Phagocytes are the body's first line of defense against pathogens. They are innate immune cells that engulf and digest foreign particles like bacteria and viruses, preventing infections. Phagocytes act as the initial barrier to invading pathogens and are part of the innate immune response. Choice B, Antibodies, are produced by B cells in the adaptive immune response. Choice C, Memory B cells, are also part of the adaptive immune response and provide a faster and stronger response upon re-exposure to pathogens. Choice D, T lymphocytes, are part of the adaptive immune response, particularly involved in cell-mediated immunity.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Disinfecting and reusing sterile medical devices is not a recommended method for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Reusing sterile medical devices can increase the risk of infections due to inadequate sterilization or potential damage to the devices during the reprocessing process. Proper sterilization and disposal of single-use medical devices are essential in preventing the transmission of infections in healthcare settings. A) Handwashing with soap and water is a crucial method for preventing HAIs as it helps to remove and reduce the number of pathogens on the hands of healthcare workers, preventing the spread of infections. B) Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection is important in preventing the transmission of infections between patients and healthcare workers. C) Disinfecting and reusing sterile medical devices is not a recommended practice as it can lead to the transmission of infections if the devices are not adequately sterilized. Using single-use sterile medical devices helps to ensure that each patient receives a sterile device, reducing the risk of infections.