Which of these is a function of the pancreas?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Secreting digestive enzymes. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. This aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients. Producing insulin (Choice A) is a function of the pancreas but is primarily related to regulating blood sugar levels, not digestion. Producing bile (Choice B) is a function of the liver, not the pancreas. Absorbing nutrients (Choice D) is a function of the small intestine, not the pancreas. Therefore, the correct answer is C based on the role of the pancreas in digestion and enzyme secretion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the pharyngeal phase of swallowing involves the contraction of the pharyngeal constrictors, which propel the bolus of food or liquid down the pharynx towards the esophagus. This muscular contraction helps in the proper movement of the swallow. A, a deep breath, is not part of the pharyngeal phase but may precede swallowing. B, elevation of the tongue against the hard palate, is part of the oral phase of swallowing, not the pharyngeal phase. C, contraction of the upper esophageal sphincter, occurs in the esophageal phase, not the pharyngeal phase.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Bicarbonate ions. Acinar cells in the exocrine pancreas are responsible for secreting digestive enzymes, which are stimulated by secretin, CCK, and parasympathetic stimulation. Bicarbonate ions, on the other hand, are secreted by ductal cells in the pancreas to neutralize the acidic chyme entering the small intestine. Therefore, an increase in bicarbonate ions would not directly affect the secretion of acinar cells. Secretin stimulates the release of bicarbonate ions, while CCK and parasympathetic stimulation trigger the release of digestive enzymes. So, choice D is the correct answer because it does not directly increase the secretion of acinar cells within the exocrine pancreas.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Hematochezia refers to the passage of bright red blood in the stool, typically originating from the lower gastrointestinal tract. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding would present as melena (dark, tarry stool). Choice A is incorrect as hematochezia does not indicate upper GI bleeding. Choice C is incorrect because hematochezia specifically points to lower GI bleeding. Choice D is incorrect as hematochezia is associated with lower GI bleeding.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: it is the function of parietal cells of the stomach. Parietal cells secrete hydrochloric acid in the stomach to aid in digestion. Chief cells are responsible for producing pepsinogen, not acid. Gastrin secretion actually stimulates acid secretion rather than inhibiting it, making choice C incorrect. Acetylcholine (Ach) also stimulates acid secretion, so choice D is incorrect. Parietal cells are the primary cells responsible for acid secretion in the stomach, making choice B the correct answer.