HESI A2
Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which structure in the kidney filters blood to form urine?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The glomerulus is a key structure in the kidney responsible for filtering blood. It consists of a network of capillaries that filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, allowing the formation of urine. While the nephron, Bowman's capsule, and Loop of Henle are also essential components of the kidney's filtration system, the glomerulus is specifically involved in the initial blood filtration process. The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtrate, and the Loop of Henle is responsible for reabsorption and concentration of urine, not the initial blood filtration.
Question 2 of 9
Which of the following statements best describes endocrine glands?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'They secrete chemicals into the blood.' Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various body functions. This process helps in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating different physiological processes within the body. Choice A is incorrect as endocrine glands do not absorb chemicals from the blood; instead, they release hormones. Choice C is incorrect as endocrine glands do not filter chemicals from the blood; they secrete hormones. Choice D is incorrect as endocrine glands do not absorb chemicals from the lymphatic system; they release hormones into the bloodstream.
Question 3 of 9
Which hormone is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Melatonin. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is the hormone involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. It plays a crucial role in signaling the body that it is time to sleep and is influenced by light exposure. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening, promoting sleep, and decrease in the morning, helping in waking up. Choice A, Insulin, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels, not the sleep-wake cycle. Choice C, Cortisol, is a stress hormone that helps regulate metabolism and immune response but is not primarily involved in the sleep-wake cycle. Choice D, Thyroxine, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, growth, and development, but it is not directly involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
Question 4 of 9
Which nutrients are important for bone health?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Calcium and phosphorus are crucial nutrients for bone health as they are essential minerals required for bone strength, density, and various body functions. Adequate intake of calcium and phosphorus through the diet is important for maintaining healthy bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, but it is not the main nutrient responsible for bone health. Iron and zinc are important for other bodily functions, not specifically bone health. Magnesium and sodium, while important for overall health, are not as directly linked to bone health as calcium and phosphorus.
Question 5 of 9
Which structure in the kidney filters blood to form urine?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The glomerulus is a key structure in the kidney responsible for filtering blood. It consists of a network of capillaries that filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, allowing the formation of urine. While the nephron, Bowman's capsule, and Loop of Henle are also essential components of the kidney's filtration system, the glomerulus is specifically involved in the initial blood filtration process. The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtrate, and the Loop of Henle is responsible for reabsorption and concentration of urine, not the initial blood filtration.
Question 6 of 9
What is the name of the outermost layer of the skin?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The epidermis is the correct answer as it is the outermost layer of the skin. It acts as a protective barrier against environmental factors and helps in regulating moisture balance. The epidermis is also where new skin cells are continuously formed and contains melanocytes responsible for skin pigmentation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis, the subcutaneous tissue is the deepest layer of the skin, and the hypodermis lies below the dermis.
Question 7 of 9
When an individual is under stress, hormones are released. Which of the following is not one of the locations in which hormones are released when under stress?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: During stress, hormones are released from the adrenal cortex, posterior pituitary, and hypothalamus to help the body respond. The parathyroid gland, however, is not typically involved in the stress response by releasing hormones. The posterior pituitary releases hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin, the hypothalamus secretes corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and vasopressin, while the adrenal cortex releases cortisol and aldosterone in response to stress. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Parathyroid.'
Question 8 of 9
Which structure is part of both the male reproductive system and the urinary system?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is the Urethra. The urethra is a structure that plays a role in both the male reproductive system, by carrying semen, and the urinary system, by carrying urine. It serves as a common pathway for both reproductive and excretory functions in males. The Testes (Choice A) are part of the male reproductive system but not the urinary system. The Prostate (Choice C) is also part of the male reproductive system but not the urinary system. The Penis (Choice D) is primarily involved in the male reproductive system as the organ that delivers semen during sexual intercourse.
Question 9 of 9
The motor cortex helps the brain by monitoring and controlling the body's movement. Where is the motor cortex located within the brain?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Front portion of the parietal lobe. The motor cortex is located in the frontal lobe, specifically in the front portion of the parietal lobe. It is responsible for planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the motor cortex is not located at the back of the head, top middle portion of the parietal lobe, or around the auditory cortex.