MCH 101 Exam 1 V3 | Anemia, Depression,
and Influenza Insights | William Paterson
University
1. Which of the following is the most common cause of iron-deficiency anemia worldwide?
A. Excessive intake of Vitamin C
B. High altitude living
C. Chronic blood loss
D. Genetic mutation of hemoglobin
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Iron-deficiency anemia often occurs due to chronic blood loss which
depletes the body’s iron stores over time. This depletion prevents the bone marrow from
creating enough hemoglobin for red blood cells. Common sources of blood loss include
gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual cycles.
2. In the context of mental health, what does the term ‘anhedonia’ specifically refer to?
A. Inability to feel pleasure in normally enjoyable activities
B. Persistent feelings of anxiety
C. Excessive sleepiness during the day
D. Rapid shifts in mood from high to low
,Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Anhedonia is a core clinical symptom of Major Depressive Disorder
and other mental health conditions. It describes a diminished capacity to experience
pleasure or interest in activities that were previously rewarding. Recognizing this symptom
is crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing depression accurately.
3. How does the influenza virus primarily spread from person to person?
A. Through contaminated water sources
B. By sharing unwashed clothing
C. Through skin-to-skin contact only
D. Via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread through
large-particle droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These
droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Maintaining physical
distance and practicing respiratory etiquette are key preventive measures.
4. Which vitamin is essential for the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin K
C. Vitamin B12
, D. Vitamin D
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, significantly enhances the
absorption of non-heme iron found in vegetables and grains. It works by forming a chelate
with ferric iron at acid pH, which remains soluble at the alkaline pH of the duodenum.
Consuming citrus fruits alongside iron-rich plants is a common nutritional
recommendation.
5. What is the primary mechanism of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in
treating depression?
A. Increasing the breakdown of serotonin in the synapse
B. Blocking dopamine receptors in the brain
C. Decreasing the overall production of serotonin
D. Blocking the reabsorption of serotonin into the pre-synaptic neuron
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: SSRIs function by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, which
increases the levels of this neurotransmitter available in the synaptic cleft. Higher levels of
serotonin are associated with improved mood and emotional regulation. These
medications are typically the first line of treatment for moderate to severe depression.
6. Which population is at the highest risk for severe complications from the influenza virus?
A. Healthy young adults aged 20-30
and Influenza Insights | William Paterson
University
1. Which of the following is the most common cause of iron-deficiency anemia worldwide?
A. Excessive intake of Vitamin C
B. High altitude living
C. Chronic blood loss
D. Genetic mutation of hemoglobin
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Iron-deficiency anemia often occurs due to chronic blood loss which
depletes the body’s iron stores over time. This depletion prevents the bone marrow from
creating enough hemoglobin for red blood cells. Common sources of blood loss include
gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual cycles.
2. In the context of mental health, what does the term ‘anhedonia’ specifically refer to?
A. Inability to feel pleasure in normally enjoyable activities
B. Persistent feelings of anxiety
C. Excessive sleepiness during the day
D. Rapid shifts in mood from high to low
,Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Anhedonia is a core clinical symptom of Major Depressive Disorder
and other mental health conditions. It describes a diminished capacity to experience
pleasure or interest in activities that were previously rewarding. Recognizing this symptom
is crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing depression accurately.
3. How does the influenza virus primarily spread from person to person?
A. Through contaminated water sources
B. By sharing unwashed clothing
C. Through skin-to-skin contact only
D. Via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread through
large-particle droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These
droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Maintaining physical
distance and practicing respiratory etiquette are key preventive measures.
4. Which vitamin is essential for the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin K
C. Vitamin B12
, D. Vitamin D
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, significantly enhances the
absorption of non-heme iron found in vegetables and grains. It works by forming a chelate
with ferric iron at acid pH, which remains soluble at the alkaline pH of the duodenum.
Consuming citrus fruits alongside iron-rich plants is a common nutritional
recommendation.
5. What is the primary mechanism of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in
treating depression?
A. Increasing the breakdown of serotonin in the synapse
B. Blocking dopamine receptors in the brain
C. Decreasing the overall production of serotonin
D. Blocking the reabsorption of serotonin into the pre-synaptic neuron
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: SSRIs function by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, which
increases the levels of this neurotransmitter available in the synaptic cleft. Higher levels of
serotonin are associated with improved mood and emotional regulation. These
medications are typically the first line of treatment for moderate to severe depression.
6. Which population is at the highest risk for severe complications from the influenza virus?
A. Healthy young adults aged 20-30
