NUR 631/NUR631 Final Exam V3 |
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
Q&A with Rationale | Grand Canyon
University
1. Which of the following is the primary mechanism behind the development of type 2
diabetes mellitus?
A. Absolute insulin deficiency due to autoimmune destruction of beta cells.
B. Insulin resistance combined with a progressive decline in pancreatic beta-cell function.
C. Excessive production of glucagon by the alpha cells of the pancreas.
D. Decreased glucose absorption in the small intestine.
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to use insulin
effectively, a state known as insulin resistance. Over time, the pancreas becomes unable to
produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance, leading to hyperglycemia. This differs
from Type 1 diabetes, which involves an absolute lack of insulin due to autoimmune
destruction.
2. In the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), which enzyme is responsible for
converting Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II?
A. Renin
,B. Erythropoietin
C. Aldosterone synthase
D. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), primarily found in the lungs,
facilitates the conversion of Angiotensin I to the potent vasoconstrictor Angiotensin II. This
process is a critical step in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance. Inhibiting
this enzyme is a common pharmacological strategy for managing hypertension.
3. A patient presents with a ‘moon face,’ buffalo hump, and central obesity. Which condition
is most likely?
A. Addison’s Disease
B. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
C. Cushing’s Syndrome
D. Pheochromocytoma
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Cushing’s syndrome results from chronic exposure to excessive levels
of cortisol, either endogenously produced or through medication. The characteristic
physical findings include fat redistribution to the face and upper back. It is often associated
with hypertension, glucose intolerance, and skin thinning.
, 4. What is the primary pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis?
A. Demyelination of central nervous system neurons.
B. Destruction of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra.
C. Autoimmune destruction of acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.
D. Excessive release of norepinephrine at synaptic clefts.
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where
antibodies attack acetylcholine receptors at the postsynaptic membrane. This interference
reduces the number of available receptors, leading to muscle weakness and fatigability. The
symptoms typically improve with rest and worsen with repetitive muscle use.
5. Which of the following compensates for metabolic acidosis?
A. Hypoventilation to retain CO2.
B. Decreased renal excretion of hydrogen ions.
C. Increased renal excretion of bicarbonate.
D. Hyperventilation to blow off CO2.
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: In response to metabolic acidosis, the respiratory system attempts to
restore pH balance by increasing the rate and depth of breathing. This hyperventilation
decreases the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2), which shifts the pH back
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
Q&A with Rationale | Grand Canyon
University
1. Which of the following is the primary mechanism behind the development of type 2
diabetes mellitus?
A. Absolute insulin deficiency due to autoimmune destruction of beta cells.
B. Insulin resistance combined with a progressive decline in pancreatic beta-cell function.
C. Excessive production of glucagon by the alpha cells of the pancreas.
D. Decreased glucose absorption in the small intestine.
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to use insulin
effectively, a state known as insulin resistance. Over time, the pancreas becomes unable to
produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance, leading to hyperglycemia. This differs
from Type 1 diabetes, which involves an absolute lack of insulin due to autoimmune
destruction.
2. In the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), which enzyme is responsible for
converting Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II?
A. Renin
,B. Erythropoietin
C. Aldosterone synthase
D. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), primarily found in the lungs,
facilitates the conversion of Angiotensin I to the potent vasoconstrictor Angiotensin II. This
process is a critical step in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance. Inhibiting
this enzyme is a common pharmacological strategy for managing hypertension.
3. A patient presents with a ‘moon face,’ buffalo hump, and central obesity. Which condition
is most likely?
A. Addison’s Disease
B. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
C. Cushing’s Syndrome
D. Pheochromocytoma
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Cushing’s syndrome results from chronic exposure to excessive levels
of cortisol, either endogenously produced or through medication. The characteristic
physical findings include fat redistribution to the face and upper back. It is often associated
with hypertension, glucose intolerance, and skin thinning.
, 4. What is the primary pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis?
A. Demyelination of central nervous system neurons.
B. Destruction of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra.
C. Autoimmune destruction of acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.
D. Excessive release of norepinephrine at synaptic clefts.
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where
antibodies attack acetylcholine receptors at the postsynaptic membrane. This interference
reduces the number of available receptors, leading to muscle weakness and fatigability. The
symptoms typically improve with rest and worsen with repetitive muscle use.
5. Which of the following compensates for metabolic acidosis?
A. Hypoventilation to retain CO2.
B. Decreased renal excretion of hydrogen ions.
C. Increased renal excretion of bicarbonate.
D. Hyperventilation to blow off CO2.
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: In response to metabolic acidosis, the respiratory system attempts to
restore pH balance by increasing the rate and depth of breathing. This hyperventilation
decreases the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2), which shifts the pH back
