ATI Anatomy and Physiology

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis by forming plugs to stop bleeding. Choice B is incorrect because platelets do not promote vasodilation; instead, they help in vasoconstriction. Choice C is incorrect as the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is a function of the coagulation cascade involving various clotting factors, not platelets. Choice D is incorrect as platelets do not directly activate calcium; instead, they play a role in the activation of other clotting factors.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Tympanic membrane. The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is located at the end of the ear canal and vibrates when sound waves strike it. This vibration is then transmitted to the ossicles in the middle ear, which amplify and transmit the sound to the inner ear. Choice A, the Acoustic meatus, is incorrect as it is the ear canal itself, not the structure that vibrates. Choice B, the Cochlea, is responsible for translating sound vibrations into electrical signals but is not located at the end of the ear canal. Choice C, the Eustachian tube, is responsible for equalizing pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere and is not involved in vibration from sound waves.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Sinoatrial (SA) node. The SA node is known as the natural pacemaker of the heart as it initiates the electrical impulses responsible for the heartbeat. The other choices, such as the Atrioventricular (AV) nodes, Bundle of His, and Purkinje fibers, are involved in conducting the electrical signals generated by the SA node to coordinate the heart's contractions. Therefore, they do not serve as the primary origin of the heartbeat.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hematocrit.' Hematocrit is the measurement of the percentage of red blood cells in whole blood. It is used to diagnose conditions such as anemia and dehydration. Choice B, 'Hemoglobin,' measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood, not the percentage of red blood cells. Choice C, 'Mean corpuscular volume,' measures the average volume of a red blood cell, not the percentage of red blood cells. Choice D, 'Reticulocyte count,' measures the percentage of young red blood cells in the blood, not the percentage of red blood cells.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Symphysis pubis. The symphysis pubis is a component of the appendicular skeleton, specifically part of the pelvic girdle. The xiphoid process (Choice A) is part of the axial skeleton, located at the lower end of the sternum. The sacrum (Choice C) is also part of the axial skeleton, forming the posterior part of the pelvis. The sternum (Choice D) is part of the axial skeleton, located in the center of the chest.