HESI A2 anatomy and physiology practice questions, set 12

HESI A2 · anatomy and physiology

HESI A2 anatomy and physiology practice questions set 12

You name structures and functions out loud — the HESI A2 module that sinks most retakes. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the HESI A2 exam guide or more HESI A2 practice questions.

Five anatomy and physiology questions with answers

Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.

Question 1

What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?

  1. A. To filter waste from the blood
  2. B. To produce urine
  3. C. To regulate blood pressure
  4. D. To absorb nutrients
Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: A — To filter waste from the blood

The correct answer is A: 'To filter waste from the blood.' The primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system is to filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, forming urine, which is then excreted from the body. Kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's overall balance by filtering out waste, regulating fluid levels, and helping in the elimination of toxins. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while the kidneys do produce urine, regulate blood pressure, and help in nutrient absorption indirectly, their primary function is the filtration of waste from the blood.

Question 2

When an individual is under stress, hormones are released. Which of the following is not one of the locations where hormones are released when under stress?

  1. A. Parathyroid gland
  2. B. Adrenal cortex
  3. C. Posterior pituitary
  4. D. Hypothalamus
Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: A — Parathyroid gland

The parathyroid gland is not a location where hormones are typically released during stress. It primarily regulates calcium levels in the blood through the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH). On the other hand, the adrenal cortex releases hormones like cortisol in response to stress, the posterior pituitary releases oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone, and the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in coordinating stress responses through the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Therefore, the parathyroid gland is the correct answer as it is not directly involved in the stress response pathway.

Question 3

Which gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism?

  1. A. Pituitary gland
  2. B. Thyroid gland
  3. C. Adrenal gland
  4. D. Pineal gland
Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: B — Thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones, such as thyroxine, that play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy production, and overall growth and development in the body. The pituitary gland, while important for hormone regulation, does not primarily regulate metabolism. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are more related to stress response than direct metabolism regulation. The pineal gland mainly produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and not metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland.

Question 4

During a wellness workshop, a healthcare provider is collecting comprehensive health histories from attendees. One of the written questions on the history form states, 'You don't smoke, drink, or take drugs, do you?' This question is an example of:

  1. A. talking too much.
  2. B. using confrontation.
  3. C. using biased or leading questions.
  4. D. using blunt language to address sensitive topics.
Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: C — using biased or leading questions.

The question provided is an example of using biased or leading questions. It suggests that one answer is more socially acceptable or preferable than another, potentially pressuring the individual to respond in a specific way. This can result in inaccurate information being provided and may also evoke feelings of guilt or judgment, influencing the person's responses. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the nature of the question. The question does not involve talking too much, confrontation, or blunt language; instead, it leads the respondent towards a specific answer.

Question 5

Which of the following is true about skeletal muscle?

  1. A. Skeletal muscle makes up 40% of the body's weight.
  2. B. Skeletal muscle attaches to bones by tendons.
  3. C. Muscle contraction is not involved in temperature regulation.
  4. D. Skeletal muscles contract only when in use.
Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: B — Skeletal muscle attaches to bones by tendons.

The correct statement is that skeletal muscle attaches to bones through tendons, enabling movement. Tendons connect muscles to bones and allow the force generated by muscle contraction to be transmitted to the bones, facilitating voluntary movements. Choice A is incorrect because skeletal muscle typically makes up around 40-50% of an individual's body weight, not a fixed 40%. Choice C is incorrect as muscle contraction plays a vital role in temperature regulation by generating heat. Choice D is incorrect as skeletal muscles may have constant low-level contractions even at rest, known as muscle tone.

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Ten more HESI A2 anatomy and physiology questions

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Question 6

What is the function of the gallbladder?

  1. A. To produce bile
  2. B. To store and concentrate bile
  3. C. To detoxify harmful substances
  4. D. To break down fats
Answer and rationale unlock in the Nursier study hub. Unlock answers

Question 7

What role does the liver play in metabolism?

  1. A. Storing glucose
  2. B. Secreting bile
  3. C. Detoxifying harmful substances
  4. D. Producing enzymes
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Question 8

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

  1. A. To transport oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
  2. B. To regulate body temperature
  3. C. To fight infections
  4. D. To produce energy
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Question 9

What type of tissue forms the outer layer of the skin?

  1. A. Connective tissue
  2. B. Epithelial tissue
  3. C. Muscle tissue
  4. D. Nervous tissue
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Question 10

Which gland produces the hormone melatonin?

  1. A. Pineal gland
  2. B. Thyroid gland
  3. C. Pituitary gland
  4. D. Adrenal gland
Answer and rationale unlock in the Nursier study hub. Unlock answers

Question 11

What would be an appropriate nursing response when a mother reports that her 16-month-old toddler has an earache?

  1. A. Maybe the toddler is just teething.
  2. B. I will check her ear for an ear infection.
  3. C. Are you sure the toddler is really in pain?
  4. D. Please describe what the toddler is doing to indicate she is in pain.
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Question 12

The epidermis is classified as which of the following?

  1. A. Cell
  2. B. Tissue
  3. C. Organ
  4. D. System
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Question 13

Which is an anterior muscle of the thigh?

  1. A. Gluteus maximus
  2. B. Quadriceps femoris
  3. C. Biceps femoris
  4. D. Adductor magnus
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Question 14

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

  1. A. To absorb oxygen
  2. B. To transport nutrients
  3. C. To produce sound and speech
  4. D. To regulate blood pressure
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Question 15

What is the function of white blood cells?

  1. A. To carry oxygen to the cells
  2. B. To fight infection
  3. C. To transport nutrients
  4. D. To clot blood
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About these HESI A2 anatomy and physiology questions

HESI A2 anatomy and physiology practice questions, set 12 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.

No. Nursier is independent practice. Register through the official path named on the HESI A2 exam guide.

The first five questions already include the rationale. Start full practice to unlock the remaining keys, missed-question review, and the rest of the bank.

Keep going past these 15 questions

Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.