You catch glucose, thyroid, and steroid problems from the labs and symptoms in the stem. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the LPN exams exam guide or more LPN exams practice questions.
Five endocrine questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
A 46-year-old Hispanic man has had increasing malaise with headaches and easy fatigability for the past 3 months. Physical examination reveals his blood pressure is 200/100 mm Hg. There are no palpable abdominal masses and no costovertebral tenderness. Laboratory studies show hemoglobin, 9.5 g/dL; hematocrit, 28.3%; MCV, 92 μm3; creatinine, 4.5 mg/dL; and urea nitrogen, 42 mg/dL. Urinalysis reveals 3+ hematuria and 3+ proteinuria, but no glucose or leukocytes. A renal biopsy is done; light microscopic examination of the biopsy specimen shows that approximately 50% of the glomeruli appear normal, but the rest show that a portion of the capillary tuft is sclerotic. Immunofluorescence staining shows IgM and C3 deposition in these sclerotic areas. His history is significant for repeated episodes of passing dark brown urine, which failed to respond to corticosteroid therapy. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely responsible for his disease?
A. Attachment of anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies
B. Deposition of immune complexes containing microbial antigens
C. Deposition of C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF)
D. Dysfunction of the podocyte slit diaphragm apparatus
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Dysfunction of the podocyte slit diaphragm apparatus
Corticosteroid-resistant hematuria and proteinuria leading to hypertension and renal failure is typical for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). FSGS is now the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults in the United States. Specialized extracellular areas overlying the glomerular basement membrane between adjacent foot processes of podocytes are called slit diaphragms, and these exert control over glomerular permeability. Mutations in genes affecting several proteins, including nephrin and podocin, have been found in inherited cases of FSGS; podocyte dysfunction, possibly caused by cytokines or unknown toxic factors, may be responsible for acquired cases of FSGS. FSGS with collapsing glomerulopathy is seen in patients with HIV-associated nephropathy. Immune complexes containing microbial antigens cause postinfectious glomerulonephritis (GN). Antiglomerular basement membrane antibodies are responsible for Goodpasture syndrome. C3NeF is an autoantibody directed against C3 convertase, and it is seen in membranoproliferative GN. Inherited defects in basement membrane collagen cause Alport syndrome, also characterized by hematuria, but other congenital abnormalities, such as deafness, are often present, and nephrotic syndrome is uncommon.
Question 2
A 15-year-old boy has been passing dark-colored urine for the past month. On physical examination, he has bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and corneal erosions. Urinalysis shows a pH of 6.5; specific gravity, 1.015; 1+ hematuria; 1+ proteinuria; and no ketones, glucose, or leukocytes. The serum creatinine level is 2.5 mg/dL, and the urea nitrogen level is 24 mg/dL. A renal biopsy specimen shows tubular epithelial foam cells by light microscopy. By electron microscopy, the glomerular basement membrane shows areas of attenuation, with splitting and lamination of lamina densa in other thickened areas. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A. Mutation in a gene encoding type IV collagen
B. Increased synthesis of abnormal IgA
C. Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells
D. Acquired deficiency of ADAMTS13 metalloprotease
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Mutation in a gene encoding type IV collagen
Alport syndrome is a form of hereditary nephritis. Hematuria is the most common presenting feature, but proteinuria is often present and may be in the nephrotic range. Patients progress to chronic renal failure in adulthood. An X-linked pattern of inheritance is present in 85% of cases, but autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive pedigrees also exist. The foamy change in the tubular epithelial cells and ultrastructural alterations of the basement membrane are characteristic features. The genetic defect results from mutation in the gene for the a5 chain of type IV collagen. IgA nephropathy is a form of glomerulonephritis that does not produce tubular epithelial changes. TTP is often associated with inherited or acquired deficiencies of ADAMTS13, leading to thrombotic microangiopathy, similar to hemolytic uremic syndrome from Escherichia coli Shiga toxin damaging vascular endothelium. Nodular and diffuse glomerulosclerosis are typical changes in diabetic nephropathy that can occur following loss of pancreatic islet beta cells. Toxic injuries are most likely to damage tubular cells, leading to acute tubular necrosis.
Question 3
What ion is sometimes used as a second messenger of amino acid-base hormones?
A. Iron
B. Calcium
C. Sodium
D. Chlorine
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Calcium
The correct answer is B: Calcium. Calcium ions are commonly used as second messengers for amino acid-base hormones due to their ability to trigger various cellular responses. When the hormone binds to its receptor on the cell surface, it activates specific signaling pathways that lead to an increase in intracellular calcium levels. This rise in calcium ions then initiates downstream signaling cascades, ultimately regulating processes such as gene expression, cell growth, and metabolism.
Choice A - Iron: Iron is not typically involved in signaling pathways for amino acid-base hormones. It is more commonly known for its role in oxygen transport and storage in hemoglobin.
Choice C - Sodium: While sodium ions play essential roles in cellular functions, they are not typically utilized as second messengers for amino acid-base hormones. Sodium is more commonly associated with maintaining cell membrane potential and fluid balance.
Choice D - Chlorine: Chlorine ions are not typically involved in signaling pathways for amino acid-base hormones. Chlorine is primarily known for its role in maintaining
Question 4
Which division of the nervous system sends signals to the adrenal glands during moments of danger?
A. Central nervous system
B. Sympathetic division
C. Parasympathetic division
D. Peripheral nervous system
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Sympathetic division
The correct answer is B: Sympathetic division. This division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response during moments of danger. When an individual perceives a threat, the sympathetic division activates to prepare the body for action, including sending signals to the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol, which help increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for processing and transmitting information within the body, but it does not directly send signals to the adrenal glands.
C: The parasympathetic division is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" functions and works in opposition to the sympathetic division. It does not send signals to the adrenal glands during moments of danger.
D: The peripheral nervous system consists of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, including sensory and motor nerves, but it does not specifically send signals
Question 5
The nurse is teaching assistive personnel (AP) about hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands. Which hormone has the primary responsibility of maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition?
A. Sodium
B. Magnesium
C. Aldosterone
D. Renin
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Aldosterone
The correct answer is C: Aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition by regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. It promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys, helping to maintain blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Therefore, aldosterone has the primary responsibility for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition.
A: Sodium - While sodium is an important electrolyte involved in fluid balance, it is not a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
B: Magnesium - Magnesium is also an important electrolyte, but it is not primarily responsible for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition in the body.
D: Renin - Renin is an enzyme produced by the kidneys that plays a role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance, but it is not a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and does not have the primary responsibility for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition.
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.
Stems and choices stay public so you can still reason. Correct answers and full rationales unlock with the rest of the bank.
Question 6
A 12-year-old girl has experienced increasing malaise for the past 2 weeks. On physical examination, she has periorbital edema. The child is afebrile. Laboratory findings show proteinuria on dipstick urinalysis, but no hematuria or glucosuria. Microscopic examination of the urine shows numerous oval fat bodies. The serum creatinine level is 2.3 mg/dL. She receives a course of corticosteroid therapy, but does not improve. A renal biopsy is performed and microscopic examination shows that approximately 50% of the glomeruli in the specimen are affected by the lesion shown in the figure. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A. Dense deposit disease
B. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
C. Minimal change disease
D. Nodular glomerulosclerosis
Correct answer:
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) shows sclerosis of only a segment of the glomerulus (segmental lesion), and because only 50% of the glomeruli are affected, this is focal disease. FSGS manifests clinically with nephrotic syndrome that does not respond to corticosteroid therapy. FSGS can result from many forms of glomerular injury; some may be linked to NPHS gene mutations. In contrast, corticosteroid-responsive nephrotic syndrome in children is typically caused by minimal change disease (lipoid nephrosis) that is not associated with any glomerular change seen under the light microscope. Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (GN) and dense deposit disease are more likely to produce a nephritic syndrome in adults. A diabetic patient with nephrotic syndrome is likely to have nodular glomerulosclerosis or diffuse thickening of the basement membrane. An acute proliferative postinfectious GN has hypercellular glomeruli with neutrophils. A rapidly progressive GN is associated with hematuria, and glomerular crescents are present.
Which of the following is the most important effect of somatotropic hormone?
A. Promotion of the urinary excretion of calcium
B. Growth of the musculoskeletal system
C. Regulation of sodium and water balance
D. Initiates and sustains labor to terminate pregnancy
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Growth of the musculoskeletal system. Somatotropic hormone, also known as growth hormone, plays a crucial role in stimulating growth and development of bones, muscles, and tissues. It promotes the growth of the musculoskeletal system by stimulating the production of proteins that are essential for muscle and bone growth. This effect is the most important function of somatotropic hormone as it directly impacts overall body growth and physical development.
Explanation for other choices:
A: Promotion of the urinary excretion of calcium - This is not a primary function of somatotropic hormone. Calcium regulation is mainly controlled by other hormones like parathyroid hormone and calcitonin.
C: Regulation of sodium and water balance - This function is primarily controlled by hormones like aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone, not somatotropic hormone.
D: Initiates and sustains labor to terminate pregnancy - Labor initiation is regulated by hormones like oxytocin and prostaglandins, not somat
Which gland is considered the most influential endocrine gland?
A. Pineal gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Thyroid gland
D. Adrenal gland
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is considered the most influential endocrine gland because it controls the functions of other endocrine glands by secreting various hormones that regulate growth, reproduction, metabolism, and other bodily functions. It is often referred to as the "master gland" due to its crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance and homeostasis in the body.
Rationale:
A: Pineal gland - The pineal gland primarily regulates the sleep-wake cycle through the secretion of melatonin and is not as influential in overall endocrine function as the pituitary gland.
C: Thyroid gland - The thyroid gland regulates metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones, but it does not have the same level of control over other endocrine glands as the pituitary gland.
D: Adrenal gland - The adrenal gland produces hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are important for stress response and metabolism, but it does not have the same regulatory influence over other
A patient has been receiving a large dose of prednisone for the relief of arthritic pain for 6 months. He suddenly stops taking his medication. What is the most serious concern?
A. His arthritic pain will recur.
B. He will develop an acute adrenal insufficiency.
C. He will continue to exhibit symptoms of Cushing syndrome.
D. He will develop a moon face and buffalo hump.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: He will develop an acute adrenal insufficiency. When a patient abruptly stops taking a large dose of prednisone after long-term use, it can suppress the body's natural production of cortisol. This sudden withdrawal can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a potentially life-threatening condition. The adrenal glands may not be able to produce enough cortisol to meet the body's needs, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, low blood pressure, and even shock. This is a serious concern that requires medical attention.
Incorrect choices:
A: His arthritic pain will recur - While this is a valid concern, it is not the most serious issue compared to acute adrenal insufficiency.
C: He will continue to exhibit symptoms of Cushing syndrome - Cushing syndrome is a result of prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, not sudden withdrawal.
D: He will develop a moon face and buffalo hump - These are physical symptoms associated with Cushing syndrome, not acute adrenal
When an action potential reaches the axon terminal, what happens next?
A. The muscle fiber contracts
B. Acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft
C. Endosomes containing neurotransmitter fuse to cell membrane, and release neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft
D. Sodium channels open at the motor end plate, moving the cell membrane closer to threshold
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because when an action potential reaches the axon terminal, endosomes containing neurotransmitters fuse with the cell membrane and release neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft. This process is known as exocytosis. This neurotransmitter then binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, initiating a new action potential.
Choice A is incorrect because the muscle fiber contraction is initiated by the binding of the neurotransmitter to receptors on the muscle cell, not directly by the action potential reaching the axon terminal.
Choice B is incorrect because acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft after it has already been released and has completed its role in transmitting the signal.
Choice D is incorrect because sodium channels opening at the motor end plate is part of the process of muscle cell depolarization and contraction, not directly related to the release of neurotransmitter at the axon terminal.
A 25-year-old man has a 5-year history of celiac sprue. Four days after a mild upper respiratory infection, he begins passing dark red-brown urine. The dark urine persists for the next 3 days and then becomes clear and yellow, only to become red-brown again 1 month later. There are no remarkable findings on physical examination. Urinalysis shows a pH of 6.5; specific gravity, 1.018; 3+ hematuria; 1+ proteinuria; and no glucose or ketones. Microscopic examination of the urine shows RBCs, but no WBCs, casts, or crystals. A 24-hour urine protein level is 200 mg. A renal biopsy specimen from the glomeruli of this patient is most likely to show which of the following alterations?
A. Diffuse cellular proliferation and basement membrane thickening
B. Granular staining of the basement membrane by anti-IgG antibodies
C. Mesangial IgA staining by immunofluorescence
D. Subepithelial electron-dense deposits
Correct answer:
IgA nephropathy (also known as Berger disease) can explain this nephritic condition with the presence of recurrent hematuria in a young adult. Nephrotic syndrome is not present, and mesangial IgA deposition is characteristic. The initial episode of hematuria usually follows an upper respiratory infection. IgA nephropathy occurs with increased frequency in patients with celiac disease and liver disease. It proceeds to chronic renal failure within 20 years in up to half of cases. Diffuse proliferation and basement membrane thickening denote membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (GN), with IgG and C3 deposited in the glomeruli. Granular staining of basement membrane with IgG antibodies denotes immune complex deposition, which may occur in postinfectious GN, along with subepithelial deposits seen on electron microscopy. Patients with these changes also have nephritic syndrome. Glomerular capillary thrombosis is typical of hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Step-by-step rationale for why choice C (Insulin) is correct:
1. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels.
2. Diabetes mellitus is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to inadequate insulin production or ineffective use of insulin.
3. The deficiency of insulin leads to the inability to properly regulate blood sugar levels, resulting in diabetes mellitus.
4. Glucagon (choice A) is a hormone that increases blood sugar levels, so its deficiency would not cause diabetes.
5. Thyroxin (choice B) is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is not directly related to diabetes.
6. Melatonin (choice D) is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is not involved in blood sugar regulation.
Summary:
Insulin is the correct choice because its deficiency directly leads to diabetes mellitus, while the other choices do not play a significant role in the development of this condition.
Which of the following is true about the endocrine system compared to the nervous system?
A. A single hormone can target many different responses, whereas a nerve only targets a single response.
B. Blood can carry all the same hormones throughout the body simultaneously, producing responses all over the body; nerve cells can only target a small number of cells.
C. Nerve cells and blood work together. The endocrine has nothing to do with the nervous system.
D. Endocrine hormones only target a very small number of precise responses.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B because the endocrine system releases hormones into the bloodstream, allowing them to reach all parts of the body simultaneously and produce widespread responses. In contrast, the nervous system sends signals through nerve cells, which can only target a small number of specific cells. This difference in distribution and reach of signals is a key distinction between the endocrine and nervous systems.
Choice A is incorrect because a single hormone can indeed target multiple responses in different parts of the body, similar to how a nerve signal can affect multiple cells along its path.
Choice C is incorrect as nerve cells and the endocrine system can interact and influence each other's functions, such as in the case of stress response involving both systems.
Choice D is incorrect because endocrine hormones can have broad effects on various organs and tissues, not limited to a small number of precise responses.
This adrenal cortical mineralocorticoid helps regulate salt and water balance.
A. Aldosterone
B. Glucagon
C. Cortisol
D. ADH
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Aldosterone. Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex that specifically regulates salt and water balance in the body. It acts on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water, thus helping to maintain blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
Explanation for incorrect choices:
B: Glucagon - Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that primarily regulates blood sugar levels by promoting the release of glucose from the liver. It does not play a role in salt and water balance regulation.
C: Cortisol - Cortisol is a glucocorticoid that is involved in the body's response to stress and helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and inflammation. It does not have a direct role in salt and water balance.
D: ADH (antidiuretic hormone) - ADH is produced by the hypothalamus and acts on the kidneys to regulate water balance by increasing water reabsorption. While it is involved
A 48-year-old man has had increased swelling in the extremities for 2 months. Physical examination showed generalized edema. A 24-hour urine collection yielded 4.1 g of protein (albumin and globulins). He did not respond to a course of corticosteroid therapy. A renal biopsy was done, and microscopic examination showed diffuse thickening of the basement membrane. Immunofluorescence staining with antibody to the C3 component of complement was positive in a granular pattern in the glomerular capillary loops. Two years later, he experiences increasing malaise. Laboratory studies now show serum creatinine level of 4.5 mg/dL and urea nitrogen level of 44 mg/dL. Which of the following immunologic mechanisms was most likely responsible for the glomerular changes observed in the biopsy specimen?
A. Antibodies that react with basement membrane collagen
B. Antibodies against streptococci that cross-react with the basement membrane
C. Cytotoxic T cells directed against renal antigens
D. Deposition of immune complexes on the basement membrane
Correct answer:
Nephrotic syndrome may be produced by an idiopathic form of membranous nephropathy. Diffuse basement membrane thickening, in the absence of proliferative changes, and granular deposits of IgG and C3 are typical of this condition. It is caused by antibody targeting M-type phospholipase A 2 receptor antigen, the deposition of immune complexes on the basement membrane, and complement activation. In 75% of patients with membranous nephropathy, the cause of immune complex deposition is unknown. In the remaining cases an associated systemic disease (e.g. systemic lupus erythematosus) or some known cause of immune complex formation (e.g., drug reaction) exists. Antibodies that react with basement membrane give rise to a linear immunofluorescence pattern, as in Goodpasture syndrome. Membranous nephropathy has no association with streptococcal infections. There also is no evidence of cytokine-mediated or T cell-mediated damage in this disease.
LPN exams endocrine practice questions 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 LPN exams 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.