What is the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?

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Med Surg Gastrointestinal NCLEX Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

What is the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the small intestine is the absorption of nutrients. Step 1: Digestive enzymes break down food in the small intestine. Step 2: Villi and microvilli in the intestine absorb nutrients like glucose and amino acids. Step 3: Nutrients are then transported to the bloodstream for distribution to cells. Thus, choice A is correct. Choices B and C are incorrect because mechanical digestion primarily occurs in the stomach, and digestive enzymes are produced by other organs like the pancreas. Choice D is incorrect as the small intestine does not store bile; it is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.

Question 2 of 5

Which of the nurse's assigned patients should be referred to the dietitian for a complete nutritional assessment? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. This patient reporting intermittent nausea may have altered nutritional intake, which warrants a referral to the dietitian for a complete nutritional assessment. Nausea can affect food intake and nutrient absorption, potentially leading to malnutrition. Options B, C, and D do not directly indicate a need for a dietitian referral based on the information provided. The patient with rheumatoid arthritis taking prednisone may benefit from dietary interventions, but the information provided does not specify any nutritional concerns. The patient with fluctuating weight gains and losses may have nutritional issues, but further details are needed to justify a dietitian referral. The patient admitted for debridement of an infected wound may have increased nutritional needs due to wound healing, but this alone does not warrant a dietitian referral without additional information on the patient's nutritional status.

Question 3 of 5

How many teeth will be produced in an average lifetime?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 32. An average adult human has 32 permanent teeth, including 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 12 molars. These teeth are developed during childhood and adolescence and are meant to last a lifetime, barring any dental issues. Option A (20) is too low for adult teeth count, C (30) is close but incorrect, and D (52) is too high and includes extra teeth, such as wisdom teeth which not everyone develops.

Question 4 of 5

Which organ has the most metabolically active cells?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: liver. The liver has the most metabolically active cells due to its crucial role in various metabolic processes, such as detoxification, protein synthesis, and glucose metabolism. It is responsible for producing enzymes and metabolizing nutrients. The pancreas, stomach, and small intestine are important organs, but they are not as metabolically active as the liver. The pancreas primarily produces digestive enzymes and regulates blood sugar levels. The stomach digests food, and the small intestine absorbs nutrients. However, in terms of overall metabolic activity, the liver surpasses these organs.

Question 5 of 5

The membrane that hangs like an apron over the intestines is the _____.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: greater omentum. The greater omentum is a membrane that hangs like an apron over the intestines, providing protection and insulation. It consists of fatty tissue and helps to limit the spread of infection within the abdominal cavity. The mesentery (choice A) is a different structure that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. The visceral peritoneum (choice B) is the inner layer of the peritoneum that covers the organs, while the parietal peritoneum (choice C) is the outer layer that lines the abdominal cavity. Therefore, the greater omentum is the correct choice in this context.

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