HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which type of muscle tissue is voluntary?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, Skeletal muscle. Skeletal muscle is a type of voluntary muscle tissue, allowing conscious control over its movement. Unlike smooth and cardiac muscle, which are involuntary, skeletal muscle is under direct voluntary control. Cardiac muscle (choice A) is involuntary and found in the heart. Smooth muscle (choice C) is also involuntary and found in the walls of internal organs. While skeletal muscle is striated (contains stripes), choice D is not the best answer as it does not specifically address the voluntary nature of skeletal muscle.
Question 2 of 9
Which structure in the kidney filters blood?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is the Glomerulus. The glomerulus is a network of tiny blood vessels located within the Bowman's capsule. It acts as the initial filtering component in the nephron, filtering blood and allowing waste products and excess substances to pass through to form urine. Choice A, Nephron, is incorrect as the nephron is the structural and functional unit of the kidney composed of several parts, including the glomerulus. Choice C, Bowman's capsule, is where the glomerulus is located, but it is not the structure responsible for filtering blood. Choice D, Loop of Henle, plays a role in reabsorption of water and electrolytes but is not the primary structure for blood filtration in the kidney.
Question 3 of 9
What is the function of the liver in the digestive system?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To produce bile. The liver's primary function in the digestive system is to produce bile. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. It helps emulsify fats, making it easier for enzymes to break them down into smaller molecules for absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as storing glucose is primarily done in the liver for energy maintenance, detoxifying harmful substances is a function of the liver related to metabolism but not specifically in the digestive system, and absorbing nutrients is mainly done in the small intestine rather than the liver.
Question 4 of 9
Which part of the brain is responsible for controlling balance and coordination?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The cerebellum is the correct answer. It is responsible for controlling balance, coordination, and fine motor movements. The cerebrum is mainly associated with higher brain functions such as thinking and decision-making, not specifically balance and coordination. The brainstem is responsible for basic life functions like breathing and heartbeat, while the medulla oblongata is involved in regulating autonomic functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Therefore, the cerebellum stands out as the key brain region for maintaining physical control and movement.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following hormones is responsible for regulating metabolism?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland, is the hormone responsible for regulating metabolism. It plays a fundamental role in controlling the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as energy production and utilization. Thyroxine also influences growth and development in the body. Choice A, Insulin, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting the storage of glucose. While insulin has an impact on metabolism, it is not primarily responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate. Choice C, Glucagon, acts in opposition to insulin, stimulating the release of glucose from the liver to increase blood sugar levels. Glucagon primarily targets glucose regulation rather than overall metabolism. Choice D, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, regulation of blood pressure, immune function, and anti-inflammatory actions. While cortisol can have some effects on metabolism during stress responses, it is not the primary hormone responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate.
Question 6 of 9
Which hormone is secreted by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is secreted by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. It promotes the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscles, reducing blood sugar levels. Glucagon, on the other hand, works to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen into glucose and releasing it into the bloodstream. Somatostatin regulates the endocrine system and inhibits the release of insulin and glucagon. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, not the pancreas, and it plays a role in stress response and metabolism, but it does not directly lower blood glucose levels.
Question 7 of 9
Which organ in the body is responsible for insulin production?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is the pancreas. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood glucose levels. Insulin plays a key role in allowing cells to take in glucose, thereby helping to keep blood sugar levels in check. The liver (choice B), gallbladder (choice C), and kidneys (choice D) do not produce insulin. The liver is involved in glycogen storage and glucose regulation, the gallbladder stores bile, and the kidneys filter blood and regulate fluid balance.
Question 8 of 9
Where will a person who has damage to their ulnar nerve experience decreased sensation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The ulnar nerve innervates the forearm and hand, specifically providing sensation to the ring and little fingers. Damage to this nerve can lead to decreased sensation in these areas, making the arm the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the ulnar nerve does not supply sensation to the leg, face, or abdomen.
Question 9 of 9
Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. Located at the back of the brain, the cerebellum plays a crucial role in controlling balance, coordination, and fine motor movements. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to coordinate voluntary movements and maintain posture. Damage to the cerebellum can result in issues with balance, coordination, and muscle tone. The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and problem-solving, the medulla oblongata controls vital autonomic functions like breathing and heartbeat, and the brainstem serves as a pathway for neural fibers traveling to and from the brain.