HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Selenium is an essential mineral known for its antioxidant properties. 2. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and lead to various health issues. 3. Selenium specifically plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. 4. Calcium, Sulfur, and Iron are important minerals for various bodily functions but are not primarily known for their antioxidant properties. In summary: - A: Selenium is correct due to its antioxidant properties. - B: Calcium is important for bone health, not specifically an antioxidant. - C: Sulfur is needed for protein synthesis, not primarily an antioxidant. - D: Iron is essential for oxygen transport, not primarily an antioxidant.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The parathyroid hormone regulates calcium levels in the body. It does so by increasing the release of calcium from bones, promoting calcium absorption in the intestines, and reducing calcium excretion by the kidneys. This is crucial for maintaining proper bone density and nerve function. Choice A (Magnesium) is incorrect because the parathyroid hormone does not directly regulate magnesium levels. Choice C (Calcitonin) is incorrect because calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, works in opposition to parathyroid hormone to lower blood calcium levels. Choice D (Glucocorticoids) is incorrect because these hormones, produced by the adrenal glands, are involved in metabolism, immune response, and stress regulation, but not in calcium regulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tendon and possibly ligament. In a rotator cuff tear, the structures that are typically torn are the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles, particularly the supraspinatus tendon. The rotator cuff is composed of muscles and tendons, not ligaments. While it is possible for some ligaments to be involved in severe cases, the primary structures affected are the tendons. Choice B is incorrect because muscles are not typically torn in a rotator cuff tear. Choice C is incorrect as ligaments are not the primary structures involved in a rotator cuff tear. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that only the tendons are affected, whereas the tear commonly involves both tendons and possibly ligaments.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the gallbladder is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. When a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can cause pain in this area due to the distension and inflammation of the gallbladder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because gallstone pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant where the gallbladder is located, not in the lower right quadrant, umbilical region, or along the pelvic girdle.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord, which is a crucial component of the nervous system. The spinal cord carries electrical signals between the brain and the rest of the body, allowing for communication and coordination of movement and sensation. It is essential for the skeletal system to provide protection to vital nervous system structures. A, B, and D are incorrect: A: While bones do provide support for body position, they do not transmit signals to the brain directly. B: While pain nerves within bones can notify the brain of injuries, this is not the primary way the skeletal system works with the nervous system. D: Bone marrow is responsible for producing blood cells, not nerve cells.