HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which cut is considered a cross section?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: A cut through the transverse plane. A transverse plane cut, also known as a cross-section, divides the body or an organ into superior and inferior portions. This type of cut is perpendicular to the long axis of the body and is commonly used in medical imaging to display internal structures and organs in a horizontal view. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a sagittal or frontal section (A) divides the body into left and right portions, a cut along the coronal plane (B) separates the body into anterior and posterior parts, and a cut along the median plane (C) divides the body into equal left and right halves.
Question 2 of 9
Which organ system is primarily responsible for regulating electrolytes?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The urinary system, specifically the kidneys, is primarily responsible for regulating electrolytes in the body by filtering and excreting excess electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, through urine. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance, which is essential for various bodily functions and overall health. The endocrine system regulates hormones, the lymphatic system is involved in immunity, and the nervous system controls communication in the body. Therefore, the correct answer is B, the urinary system, as it directly handles electrolyte regulation by adjusting their excretion levels.
Question 3 of 9
Which of the following is not an example of a nonspecific immune response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Production of antibodies.' Antibodies are generated as part of the specific immune response, which targets specific antigens. Nonspecific immune responses, such as inflammation, vasodilation, and histamine release, are general defense mechanisms aimed at combating various pathogens. Inflammation is a localized response to infection or injury, vasodilation increases blood flow to the affected area, and histamine release triggers inflammatory responses. It's vital to differentiate between nonspecific responses that provide immediate, general protection and specific responses designed to tackle particular threats.
Question 4 of 9
How do the muscular and skeletal systems collaborate to facilitate movement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The muscular system and the skeletal system collaborate to facilitate movement. Muscles are connected to bones through tendons and contract to generate movement at the joints. When muscles contract, they exert force on the bones, resulting in actions like bending the arm or leg. This coordinated effort between muscles and bones is crucial for various activities such as walking, running, and grasping objects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the interaction between the muscular and skeletal systems. The skeletal system's primary role is to provide structural support and protect internal organs, while cardiac muscles are responsible for heart function and not bone strength. Smooth muscles are found in internal organs and are not involved in leaching excess minerals from bones.
Question 5 of 9
To which two systems does the urethra belong?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The urethra belongs to both the urinary and reproductive systems. In the urinary system, it functions as a passage for urine from the bladder to exit the body. In the reproductive system, it serves as a conduit for the expulsion of semen during ejaculation. Choice A is incorrect because the urethra is not part of the endocrine system. Choice C is also incorrect because the urethra is not primarily associated with the endocrine system. Choice D is incorrect as the urethra is not part of the digestive or cardiovascular systems.
Question 6 of 9
What is the function of the coronary artery?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'It supplies blood to the heart muscle.' The coronary artery's main function is to supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle, ensuring that the heart receives the necessary nutrients and oxygen it needs to function properly. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the coronary artery specifically delivers oxygenated blood to the heart muscle, not deoxygenated blood to the lungs or blood to the rest of the body.
Question 7 of 9
Which system does the gall bladder belong to?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The gall bladder is part of the digestive system. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver and release it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. This process facilitates the breakdown and absorption of fats from the food we consume. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the gall bladder is not associated with the endocrine, urinary, or nervous systems.
Question 8 of 9
Which hormone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Progesterone initiates the preparation of the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy. It promotes the growth of blood vessels and glands in the endometrial lining, making it conducive for implantation and supporting early pregnancy. While estrogen helps in thickening the endometrium, it is progesterone that plays a crucial role in preparing it for pregnancy. FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) is involved in stimulating ovarian follicles, not directly in preparing the endometrium. LH (Luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation but does not primarily prepare the endometrium for pregnancy.
Question 9 of 9
Enlargement of the thyroid, commonly known as a goiter, might be expected to affect ___________.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Enlargement of the thyroid, known as a goiter, can compress the nearby structures in the neck, including the esophagus. This compression can lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a sensation of pressure in the throat. Therefore, an enlarged thyroid gland is expected to affect swallowing. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a goiter primarily affects structures in the neck due to its physical enlargement, rather than directly impacting insulin levels, sleep, or digestion.