HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Regulation of blood pressure. The adrenal glands produce hormones like adrenaline and aldosterone that help regulate blood pressure by controlling fluid balance and constriction/dilation of blood vessels. Adrenal glands do not directly regulate metabolism (choice A), produce bile (choice B), or produce insulin (choice D). Metabolism is mainly regulated by the thyroid gland, bile is produced in the liver, and insulin is produced in the pancreas. Hence, choices A, B, and D are incorrect in the context of the main function of the adrenal glands.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine's primary function is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It is lined with millions of tiny villi that increase its surface area for absorption. Digestive enzymes are produced by the pancreas and released into the small intestine, so A is incorrect. Breaking down food primarily occurs in the stomach, making C incorrect. Absorbing water mainly occurs in the large intestine, so D is incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is B as the small intestine is where the majority of nutrient absorption takes place.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To absorb water and form solid waste. The large intestine's primary function is to absorb water and electrolytes from the indigestible food residue that enters it from the small intestine. This process helps in forming solid waste (feces) for elimination. The other choices are incorrect because B is the function of the pancreas and small intestine, C is the function of the endocrine system and not the large intestine, and D is the function of the small intestine where nutrient absorption mainly occurs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Adrenal gland. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, in response to stress or danger. This hormone helps the body respond to fight-or-flight situations by increasing heart rate, blood flow to muscles, and boosting energy levels. A: Thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, not adrenaline. C: Pituitary gland releases various hormones but not adrenaline. D: Pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, not adrenaline. In summary, the adrenal gland is the correct answer because it specifically produces adrenaline in response to stress, while the other glands mentioned have different functions and do not produce adrenaline.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To transport oxygen and nutrients. The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to various parts of the body to deliver nutrients and oxygen for cellular functions. It then collects oxygen-poor blood to be sent to the lungs for oxygenation. Choice A is incorrect as the kidneys are responsible for filtering blood. Choice C is incorrect as the liver and kidneys are the main organs for waste removal. Choice D is incorrect as regulating temperature is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain.