HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
Where is a gallstone most likely to cause pain?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A gallstone is most likely to cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This specific area corresponds to the location of the gallbladder. When a gallstone blocks the flow of bile from the gallbladder, it can lead to inflammation and pain in this region. The pain may also radiate to the back or right shoulder blade due to referred pain patterns associated with gallbladder issues. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because gallstone pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, not the lower right quadrant, umbilical region, or along the pelvic girdle.
Question 2 of 5
To which system do the retinas belong?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The retinas belong to the nervous system. The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for detecting light and sending visual information to the brain through the optic nerve. This process is essential for vision, which is controlled by the nervous system. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the retinas have no association with the skeletal, lymphatic, or circulatory systems.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is not part of the body's secondary defense system?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Cilia are not part of the body's secondary defense system. They are hair-like structures primarily involved in movement and transporting substances across cell surfaces, such as in the respiratory tract for debris and pathogen removal. However, cilia do not play a direct role in the immune response mechanisms characteristic of the body's secondary defense system. Macrophages, leukocytes, and T cells are immune cells that actively participate in the secondary defense system by targeting and eliminating pathogens.
Question 4 of 5
Which organ system is primarily responsible for maintaining temperature control?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is primarily responsible for maintaining temperature control in the body. The skin helps regulate body temperature through processes like sweating to cool down and shivering to generate heat. Additionally, blood vessels in the skin can dilate or constrict to control the amount of heat lost or retained by the body. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and keeping the body at a stable temperature. The skeletal system (Choice A) provides structural support and protection to the body but is not directly involved in temperature regulation. The digestive system (Choice B) is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, not for regulating body temperature. The nervous system (Choice C) controls body functions through electrical impulses but is not the primary system responsible for temperature control.
Question 5 of 5
What is the first step in pulmonary circulation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs. The first step in pulmonary circulation involves the right ventricle of the heart pumping deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary artery then carries this deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. This step is crucial for the exchange of carbon dioxide for oxygen to occur in the lungs, facilitating the oxygenation of blood. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the initial step in pulmonary circulation. Option A refers to blood moving away from the heart, option C describes the gas exchange process that occurs in the lungs but not as the first step, and option D mentions oxygenated blood moving through the aorta, which happens after oxygenation in the lungs.