What is the main function of the adrenal glands?

Questions 38

HESI A2

HESI A2 Test Bank

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023 Questions

Question 1 of 9

What is the main function of the adrenal glands?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the adrenal glands is to produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, metabolism, and the body's stress response. While the adrenal glands do have some impact on metabolism, their primary function is not the direct regulation of metabolism. They are not involved in the production of bile or insulin. Therefore, the correct answer is the regulation of blood pressure.

Question 2 of 9

Which brain region is involved in memory formation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is crucial for memory formation. It plays a vital role in converting short-term memories into long-term memories. Damage to the hippocampus can lead to significant memory deficits, highlighting its importance in the memory process. The cerebellum (Choice A) is primarily involved in coordination and balance, not memory. The brainstem (Choice C) is responsible for basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate, not memory. The frontal lobe (Choice D) is associated with functions like decision-making, problem-solving, and emotions, but not primarily memory formation.

Question 3 of 9

What is the main function of the lymphatic system?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the lymphatic system is to fight infections. It achieves this by filtering lymph, returning excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, and aiding in the body's immune response. The lymphatic system is crucial in protecting the body against pathogens and maintaining overall health. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing hormones, and transporting nutrients are functions performed by other systems in the body, like the respiratory, endocrine, and circulatory systems, respectively.

Question 4 of 9

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and organs. This is essential for cellular respiration and overall body functions. Red blood cells do not play a role in clotting blood, fighting infection, or carrying hormones. Choice A is incorrect because clotting blood is primarily done by platelets and other components of blood. Choice C is incorrect as fighting infection is a function mainly carried out by white blood cells. Choice D is incorrect because carrying hormones is primarily attributed to proteins like albumin and specific hormone-carrying proteins.

Question 5 of 9

What is the main function of the adrenal glands?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the adrenal glands is to produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, metabolism, and the body's stress response. While the adrenal glands do have some impact on metabolism, their primary function is not the direct regulation of metabolism. They are not involved in the production of bile or insulin. Therefore, the correct answer is the regulation of blood pressure.

Question 6 of 9

Which vitamin is necessary for blood clotting?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of proteins involved in blood clotting. These proteins help in the coagulation process, ensuring that wounds can heal properly by preventing excessive bleeding. Without sufficient Vitamin K, the blood clotting process may be impaired, leading to potential health risks. Vitamin D is important for bone health, Vitamin C is essential for the immune system and collagen production, and Vitamin B12 plays a role in red blood cell production and nerve function, but they are not directly involved in the blood clotting process.

Question 7 of 9

What is the primary function of the heart in the circulatory system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To pump blood throughout the body.' The primary function of the heart in the circulatory system is to pump blood, which carries oxygen and nutrients, throughout the body. Choice A, 'To filter blood,' is incorrect as the heart does not filter blood; that is primarily done by the kidneys. Choice C, 'To absorb oxygen,' is incorrect as the lungs are responsible for oxygen absorption. Choice D, 'To remove carbon dioxide,' is incorrect as the lungs facilitate the removal of carbon dioxide from the body.

Question 8 of 9

What is the function of the large intestine in the digestive system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The large intestine's primary function is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter that enters it from the small intestine. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste (feces) by compacting the material and preparing it for excretion. The large intestine does not secrete digestive enzymes, produce bile, or transport nutrients. Therefore, option B, 'To absorb water and form solid waste,' is the correct function of the large intestine in the digestive system.

Question 9 of 9

What is the primary function of the large intestine?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter and form solid waste (feces) for excretion. This process helps in reabsorbing water and electrolytes, resulting in the formation of feces by compacting the waste material. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the large intestine is not responsible for producing digestive enzymes, secreting hormones, or transporting nutrients. These functions are typically associated with other parts of the digestive system.

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