HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the primary function of white blood cells?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune system by primarily fighting off infections caused by pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and other invaders. They help the body recognize and destroy these harmful agents, contributing to the body's defense mechanisms against diseases. Choice A is incorrect because the primary function of red blood cells, not white blood cells, is to carry oxygen. Choice C is incorrect as the transportation of nutrients is mainly carried out by the bloodstream as a whole, not specifically by white blood cells. Choice D is incorrect as the process of blood clotting is primarily managed by platelets in the blood, not white blood cells.
Question 2 of 5
What is the function of the liver in digestion?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The liver's main role in digestion is to produce bile, a substance that aids in the breakdown and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Bile emulsifies fats, helping enzymes break them down into smaller molecules for easier absorption in the digestive tract. Therefore, the correct answer is A: 'To produce bile.' Storing glucose, secreting digestive enzymes, and detoxifying harmful substances are functions of the liver, but they are not primarily related to digestion.
Question 3 of 5
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.
Question 4 of 5
What is the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb nutrients. The small intestine's main role in the digestive system is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It has specialized structures, such as villi and microvilli, that increase its surface area for efficient absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Choice A is incorrect because the small intestine does not primarily secrete digestive enzymes; that role is mainly carried out by the pancreas and other digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect because the small intestine primarily absorbs nutrients rather than breaking down food. Choice D is incorrect because the absorption of water primarily occurs in the large intestine, not the small intestine.
Question 5 of 5
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.