HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The endocrine system. The endocrine system produces hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which play a crucial role in the body's stress response. These hormones help regulate heart rate, metabolism, and other physiological responses to stress. The digestive system (B), lymphatic system (C), and respiratory system (D) do not have primary roles in controlling stress. The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, the lymphatic system helps with immunity, and the respiratory system is involved in breathing.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: When they block a duct. Gallstones cause issues when they obstruct the flow of bile from the gallbladder through the bile ducts. This blockage can lead to severe pain, inflammation, infection, and potentially life-threatening complications. Choices B and C focus on the composition of gallstones, which may not always correlate with symptom severity. Choice D is incorrect because gallstones dissolving can actually relieve symptoms rather than cause problems.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because skeletal muscle attaches to bones by tendons, allowing for movement of the body. Tendons are tough connective tissues that anchor muscles to bones. This attachment enables the contraction of skeletal muscles to produce movement at the joints. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Skeletal muscle typically makes up around 40-50% of the body's weight, muscle contraction plays a role in temperature regulation through shivering, and skeletal muscles can contract even at rest due to maintaining posture or supporting the body.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 26. The human foot consists of 26 bones, including the tarsal bones, metatarsal bones, and phalanges. Understanding human anatomy is crucial for healthcare professionals and students. Choice A (6) is too few for the complexity of the foot structure. Choice B (16) is close but doesn't account for all the bones in the foot. Choice D (36) is too high and likely includes bones from other parts of the body. Identifying the correct number of bones in the foot is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment of foot-related conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: proximal. The shoulder is proximal to the elbow because "proximal" refers to a structure being closer to the point of attachment or origin, which is the case for the shoulder in relation to the elbow. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Posterior refers to the back side, not the proximity. C: Distal means farther away from the point of attachment, which is opposite to the relationship between the shoulder and elbow. D: Medial refers to being closer to the midline of the body, not the point of attachment in this context.