HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To regulate metabolism and stress response. The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and the body's response to stress. Insulin production is primarily done by the pancreas (not adrenal glands), fighting infections is the role of the immune system (not adrenal glands), and while the adrenal glands do play a role in blood pressure regulation, it is not their primary function.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Appendix. The appendix is a part of the immune system as it contains lymphoid tissue that helps in immune responses. It plays a role in maintaining gut microbiota and fighting off infections. The other choices, heart, bronchi, and esophagus, are not directly involved in the immune system. The heart is responsible for pumping blood, the bronchi are air passages in the lungs, and the esophagus is a tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Therefore, the appendix is the only organ listed that is directly associated with the immune system.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone). ADH is produced by the hypothalamus and helps regulate water balance by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. This helps to concentrate urine and retain water in the body. Insulin (B) regulates blood sugar levels, cortisol (C) is involved in stress response and metabolism, and thyroxine (D) regulates metabolism. These hormones are not directly involved in water balance regulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Filtering blood to remove waste. The primary function of the kidneys is to filter blood and remove waste products, excess water, and electrolytes to form urine. This process helps maintain the body's fluid balance and eliminate toxins. Regulating blood pressure (A) is partially true, but not the primary function. Producing red blood cells (C) is done by the bone marrow, not the kidneys. Regulating electrolyte balance (D) is an important function of the kidneys, but not the primary one.

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.