Chapter 19: Functions Of The Blood Vessels
You may know already that the blood vessels are the thin, lengthy tubes within your body through which blood is pumped by the heart so that you can get the blood you need from head to toe at all times, but do you know the exact functions? Take this quiz and we’ll see how much you know.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
A sphygmomanometer measures
- A.
Blood flow.
- B.
Hematocrit.
- C.
Blood pressure.
- D.
Oxygen saturation.
Correct Answer
C. Blood pressure.Explanation
A sphygmomanometer is a medical device used to measure blood pressure. It consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and a pressure gauge that measures the pressure of the cuff. By inflating the cuff and then slowly releasing the pressure, healthcare professionals can determine the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings of a patient. Blood pressure is an important indicator of cardiovascular health and can help diagnose conditions such as hypertension. Therefore, the correct answer is blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Blood pressure is lowest in the
- A.
Inferior vena cava.
- B.
Aorta.
- C.
Circle of Willis.
- D.
Femoral artery.
Correct Answer
A. Inferior vena cava.Explanation
The correct answer is the inferior vena cava because it is a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower body back to the heart. As blood flows from the lower body to the heart, it encounters less resistance compared to the other options mentioned. This results in lower blood pressure in the inferior vena cava compared to the aorta, circle of Willis, and femoral artery.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The characteristic of the arteriole that allows it to function as a resistance vessel is its
- A.
Thin membrane.
- B.
Porous membrane.
- C.
Valves.
- D.
Smooth muscle.
Correct Answer
D. Smooth muscle.Explanation
The characteristic of smooth muscle in arterioles allows them to function as resistance vessels. Smooth muscle is capable of contracting and relaxing, which regulates the diameter of the arterioles. When smooth muscle contracts, it narrows the arteriole, increasing resistance to blood flow. This helps regulate blood pressure and control the distribution of blood to different organs and tissues. The ability of smooth muscle to constrict or dilate the arterioles is crucial for maintaining proper blood flow and ensuring that organs receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which condition is characterized by poor skin turgor?
- A.
Expanded blood volume
- B.
Pulmonary edema
- C.
Varicose veins
- D.
Dehydration
Correct Answer
D. DehydrationExplanation
Dehydration is characterized by poor skin turgor, which means that the skin lacks elasticity and appears to be less firm. When the body is dehydrated, it loses water and electrolytes, causing the skin to lose its normal elasticity. This can be observed by gently pinching the skin and seeing how quickly it returns to its normal position. In cases of dehydration, the skin may take longer to return to its original state or may even remain tented or wrinkled. Therefore, dehydration is the correct answer in this case.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which artery is most oftern used to measure the blood pressure?
- A.
Carotid artery
- B.
Brachial artery
- C.
Femoral artery
- D.
Circle of Willis
Correct Answer
B. Brachial arteryExplanation
The brachial artery is the most commonly used artery to measure blood pressure. It is located in the upper arm and is easily accessible for measurement using a blood pressure cuff. The brachial artery is preferred because it is close to the heart and provides an accurate reflection of systemic blood pressure. Measuring blood pressure in the carotid artery or femoral artery would require more invasive procedures, while the circle of Willis is a network of arteries in the brain and not typically used for blood pressure measurement.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following best indicates why a person who is taking antihypertensive drugs should not drink alcohol or sit in a hot tub?
- A.
Hypokalemia (low potassium) and flabby muscles
- B.
Hypertensive crisis and stroke
- C.
Vasodilation and hypotension
- D.
Hemolysis and jaundice
Correct Answer
C. Vasodilation and hypotensionExplanation
When a person takes antihypertensive drugs, these medications work to lower blood pressure by causing vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels. Alcohol consumption and sitting in a hot tub can also cause vasodilation. When combined with antihypertensive drugs, this can lead to excessive vasodilation and a drop in blood pressure, resulting in hypotension. Hypotension can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Therefore, it is best for a person taking antihypertensive drugs to avoid alcohol and hot tubs to prevent the risk of vasodilation and hypotension.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is true?
- A.
CO= HR*SV*PULSE PRESSURE
- B.
BP=CO*SV*R
- C.
BP=SV*PULSE PRESSURE
- D.
BP=SV*HR*R
Correct Answer
D. BP=SV*HR*RExplanation
The given equation, BP=SV*HR*R, is true. BP represents blood pressure, SV is stroke volume (the amount of blood pumped by the heart in one contraction), HR is heart rate (the number of times the heart beats per minute), and R is the total peripheral resistance (the resistance to blood flow in the blood vessels). According to this equation, blood pressure is determined by the product of stroke volume, heart rate, and total peripheral resistance.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Plasma oncotic pressure is due primarily to
- A.
Blood pressure
- B.
Plasma proteins, especially albumin
- C.
Lymph
- D.
Electrolytes such as sodium and chloride
Correct Answer
B. Plasma proteins, especially albuminExplanation
Plasma oncotic pressure refers to the pressure exerted by plasma proteins, particularly albumin, in the blood vessels. These proteins are responsible for maintaining the balance of fluids between the blood vessels and the surrounding tissues. Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood and plays a crucial role in regulating osmotic pressure. It attracts water molecules and helps to prevent excessive fluid leakage from the blood vessels into the tissues. Therefore, plasma proteins, especially albumin, are the primary contributors to plasma oncotic pressure.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is most likely to induce a reflex bradycardia?
- A.
Development of hypovolemic (low blood volume) shock, as in hemorrage
- B.
Exertion of pressure over the carotid sinus (tight collar)
- C.
Administration of nitroglycerine (a vasodilator drug)
- D.
Administration of a diuretic for hypertension
Correct Answer
B. Exertion of pressure over the carotid sinus (tight collar)Explanation
Exertion of pressure over the carotid sinus (tight collar) is most likely to induce a reflex bradycardia. The carotid sinus is located in the neck and is responsible for detecting changes in blood pressure. When pressure is applied to the carotid sinus, it can stimulate the baroreceptors present in the sinus, leading to a reflex response that slows down the heart rate. This reflex response is known as the carotid sinus reflex and is a protective mechanism to prevent a sudden increase in blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 10.
If capillary hydrostatic pressure (CHP) exceeds plasma oncotic pressure,
- A.
Fluid moves from the interstitium into the capillary
- B.
No net flux of water occurs
- C.
Blood volume expansion occurs
- D.
Fluid is filtred into the interstitium
Correct Answer
D. Fluid is filtred into the interstitiumExplanation
When the capillary hydrostatic pressure (CHP) exceeds the plasma oncotic pressure, it means that the pressure inside the capillary is higher than the pressure exerted by proteins in the plasma. This pressure difference causes fluid to be filtered out of the capillary and into the interstitium, the space between cells. This process is known as filtration and leads to an increase in interstitial fluid volume. Therefore, the correct answer is that fluid is filtered into the interstitium.Rate this question:
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- 11.
If plasma oncotic pressure exceeds (CHP),
- A.
Fluid is filtred from the capillary into the interstitium
- B.
Fluid moves osmotically into the capillary from the interstitium
- C.
Plasma proteins diffuse from the capillary into the interstitium
- D.
Blood volume decreases
Correct Answer
B. Fluid moves osmotically into the capillary from the interstitiumExplanation
When the plasma oncotic pressure exceeds the capillary hydrostatic pressure (CHP), it means that the pressure exerted by the plasma proteins in the capillary is higher than the pressure exerted by the fluid in the capillary. This creates an osmotic gradient, causing fluid to move osmotically into the capillary from the interstitium. This movement helps to restore the balance of fluid and maintain the appropriate blood volume.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following is most related to the systolic reading, diastolic reading,a nd Korotkoff sounds?
- A.
Cardiac output
- B.
Blood pressure
- C.
The electrical activity of the heart
- D.
Coronary blood flow
Correct Answer
B. Blood pressureExplanation
The systolic reading, diastolic reading, and Korotkoff sounds are all related to blood pressure. The systolic reading represents the highest pressure in the arteries when the heart is contracting, while the diastolic reading represents the lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest. Korotkoff sounds are the sounds heard when measuring blood pressure using a stethoscope. Therefore, blood pressure is the most related to these three elements.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What do the baroreceptors regulate?
- A.
Blood volume
- B.
Hematocrit
- C.
Blood pressure
- D.
Rate of capillary filtration
Correct Answer
C. Blood pressureExplanation
Baroreceptors are specialized nerve endings located in the walls of blood vessels, particularly in the carotid sinus and aortic arch. These receptors monitor changes in blood pressure and help regulate it. When blood pressure increases, the baroreceptors send signals to the brain, which then triggers a decrease in heart rate and blood vessel dilation to lower blood pressure. Conversely, when blood pressure decreases, the baroreceptors signal the brain to increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels, raising blood pressure. Therefore, the baroreceptors play a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure homeostasis.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following increases vascular reisistance, stroke volume, and heart rate?
- A.
Stimulation of the vagus nerve
- B.
Stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system
- C.
Administration of a sympatholytic drug
- D.
Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system
Correct Answer
D. Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous systemExplanation
Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system increases vascular resistance, stroke volume, and heart rate. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response and activates various physiological responses to prepare the body for action. When stimulated, it causes vasoconstriction, which increases vascular resistance. It also increases the force of contraction of the heart, leading to an increase in stroke volume. Additionally, it increases heart rate by stimulating the sinoatrial node, the natural pacemaker of the heart. Therefore, stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system is the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following structures has the greatest effect on vascular resistance?
- A.
Veins
- B.
Arterioles
- C.
Heart
- D.
Capillaries
Correct Answer
B. ArteriolesExplanation
Arterioles have the greatest effect on vascular resistance because they are small blood vessels that regulate blood flow and control the resistance within the circulatory system. By constricting or dilating, arterioles can adjust the amount of blood flowing through the capillaries, thus affecting the overall resistance to blood flow. This ability to regulate resistance is crucial in maintaining blood pressure and ensuring adequate blood supply to various tissues and organs.Rate this question:
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- 16.
These blood vessels have very thin walls and are called the exchange vessels
- A.
Arterioles
- B.
Veins
- C.
Capillaries
- D.
Arteries
Correct Answer
C. CapillariesExplanation
Capillaries have very thin walls, allowing for the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues. Their small size and thin walls enable efficient diffusion of substances, making them the primary exchange vessels in the circulatory system. Arterioles, veins, and arteries have thicker walls and different functions.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is the pulse pressure when a person's blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg?
- A.
120
- B.
80
- C.
40
- D.
Can't determine the pulse pressure from this info
Correct Answer
C. 40Explanation
Pulse pressure is calculated by subtracting the diastolic blood pressure (80 mm Hg) from the systolic blood pressure (120 mm Hg). In this case, the pulse pressure would be 120 - 80 = 40 mm Hg.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following is most likely to develop if the pressure within the pulmonary capillaries increases?
- A.
Pedal edema
- B.
Pulsating jugular veins
- C.
Pulmonary edema
- D.
Varicose veins
Correct Answer
C. Pulmonary edemaExplanation
If the pressure within the pulmonary capillaries increases, it is most likely to result in the development of pulmonary edema. Pulmonary edema occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which can be caused by increased pressure in the pulmonary capillaries. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and difficulty breathing.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What is the term that refers to the difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure reading?
- A.
Pulse deficit
- B.
Cardiac output
- C.
Stroke volume
- D.
Pulse pressure
Correct Answer
D. Pulse pressureExplanation
Pulse pressure refers to the difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. It is calculated by subtracting the diastolic pressure from the systolic pressure. Pulse pressure provides important information about the health of the cardiovascular system and can indicate conditions such as arterial stiffness or increased risk of cardiovascular events.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following elevates blood pressure?
- A.
Diuretics
- B.
Vasodilators
- C.
Vasopressors
- D.
Antihypertensive drugs
Correct Answer
C. VasopressorsExplanation
Vasopressors are substances that constrict blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure. They work by stimulating the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels, causing them to narrow. This narrowing results in increased resistance to blood flow, which in turn elevates blood pressure. Diuretics, on the other hand, promote urine production and reduce fluid volume, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Vasodilators relax and widen blood vessels, also resulting in a decrease in blood pressure. Antihypertensive drugs are a broad category that includes various medications used to lower blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which term refers to drugs that cause vasodilation and reduce vascular resistance?
- A.
Diuretics
- B.
Antihypertensive drugs
- C.
Inotropic drugs
- D.
Sympathomimetic drugs
Correct Answer
B. Antihypertensive drugsExplanation
Antihypertensive drugs refer to medications that are used to treat high blood pressure. These drugs work by causing vasodilation, which means they relax and widen the blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance. By reducing vascular resistance, antihypertensive drugs help to lower blood pressure. Diuretics, on the other hand, work by increasing urine production and reducing fluid volume in the body. Inotropic drugs affect the force of contraction of the heart, while sympathomimetic drugs mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which part of the brain participates in the baroreceptor reflex?
- A.
Cerebrum
- B.
Corpus callosum
- C.
Cerebellum
- D.
Medulla oblongata
Correct Answer
D. Medulla oblongataExplanation
The medulla oblongata is responsible for regulating involuntary functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. The baroreceptor reflex is a mechanism that helps maintain blood pressure within a normal range. Baroreceptors located in the walls of blood vessels detect changes in blood pressure and send signals to the medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata then responds by adjusting heart rate and blood vessel diameter to maintain blood pressure at an optimal level. Therefore, the medulla oblongata participates in the baroreceptor reflex.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Both epinephrine and norepinephrine are
- A.
Steroids
- B.
Secreted by the adrenal cortex
- C.
Vasopressors
- D.
Blood pressure-lowering hormones
Correct Answer
C. VasopressorsExplanation
Epinephrine and norepinephrine are not steroids, as stated in the first option. They are actually secreted by the adrenal medulla, not the adrenal cortex, as mentioned in the second option. However, both epinephrine and norepinephrine are vasopressors, which means they constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, making the fourth option the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A sudden rise in blood pressure is most likely to produce a baroreceptor-induced
- A.
(+) inotropic effect
- B.
Bradycardia
- C.
Narrowed pulse pressure
- D.
Increased heart rate
Correct Answer
B. BradycardiaExplanation
A sudden rise in blood pressure activates the baroreceptors, which are specialized nerve endings that detect changes in blood pressure. When the baroreceptors are stimulated, they send signals to the brain to decrease heart rate and cardiac output, resulting in bradycardia. This is a protective mechanism to prevent further increases in blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which statement is not true about baroreceptors?
- A.
Can induce a reflex tachycardia
- B.
Located in the carotid sinus and aortic arch
- C.
Activated by hypoxemia
- D.
Activated by a hemorrahage-induced decline in blood pressure
Correct Answer
C. Activated by hypoxemiaExplanation
Baroreceptors are sensory receptors located in the carotid sinus and aortic arch that detect changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure decreases due to hemorrhage, baroreceptors are activated and initiate a reflex response to increase heart rate (reflex tachycardia) and restore blood pressure. However, baroreceptors are not activated by hypoxemia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood. Therefore, the statement "activated by hypoxemia" is not true about baroreceptors.Rate this question:
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- 26.
If plasma osmolarity increases, as in dehydration or the infusion of mannitol (a sugar solution)
- A.
Filtration rate increases
- B.
Fluid is forced out of the capillary into the interstitium
- C.
Fluid is "pulled" into the capillary from the interstitium
- D.
Plasma proteins diffuse out of the capillary into the interstitium
Correct Answer
C. Fluid is "pulled" into the capillary from the interstitiumExplanation
When plasma osmolarity increases, it means that there is a higher concentration of solutes in the plasma. This creates an osmotic pressure gradient between the plasma and the interstitium (the space surrounding the capillary). As a result, fluid is "pulled" into the capillary from the interstitium to equalize the osmotic pressure. This process is known as osmosis. The other options mentioned in the question are not correct because an increase in plasma osmolarity would not cause an increase in filtration rate or the diffusion of plasma proteins out of the capillary into the interstitium.Rate this question:
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- 27.
If the lymphatic vessels are blocked or surgically removed,
- A.
Excess fluid is filtered out of the capillary
- B.
Plasma oncotic pressure decreases, thereby causing fluid to leak out of the capillary
- C.
Fluid and protein accumulate in the interstitium, thereby causing edema
- D.
Excess fluid moves into the capillary, thereby "drying out" the interstitium
Correct Answer
C. Fluid and protein accumulate in the interstitium, thereby causing edemaExplanation
If the lymphatic vessels are blocked or surgically removed, the normal drainage of excess fluid from the capillaries is disrupted. This leads to a decrease in plasma oncotic pressure, which is the pressure that keeps fluid inside the capillaries. As a result, fluid and protein start to accumulate in the interstitium, which is the space between cells. This accumulation of fluid and protein causes edema, which is the swelling and fluid retention in the affected area. Therefore, the correct answer is that fluid and protein accumulate in the interstitium, thereby causing edema.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Edema is least likely to occur in which of the following?
- A.
Plasma oncotic pressure decreases because of starvation
- B.
Plasma oncotic pressure decreases because the child filters large amounts of albumin into his urine.
- C.
Plasma osmolarity increases when the patient becomes dehydrated
- D.
A woman with breast cancer has surgery that involves a breast amputation and removal of the lymph nodes/vessels
Correct Answer
C. Plasma osmolarity increases when the patient becomes dehydratedExplanation
When a patient becomes dehydrated, there is a decrease in the overall fluid volume in the body. This leads to an increase in the concentration of solutes in the plasma, resulting in an increase in plasma osmolarity. Edema, which is the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues, occurs when there is an imbalance between the hydrostatic pressure and oncotic pressure. In this case, the increase in plasma osmolarity would actually favor the movement of fluid out of the tissues and into the blood vessels, making edema less likely to occur.Rate this question:
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- 29.
If the left ventricle of the heart fails, blood backs up in the pulmonary capillary,
- A.
Decreasing plasma oncotic pressure and drying out the lung
- B.
Blocking the glow of lymph and drying out the lungs
- C.
Increasing capillary hydrostatic pressure and forcing fluid into the lungs
- D.
Increasing plasma oncotic pressure, causing pulmonary edema
Correct Answer
C. Increasing capillary hydrostatic pressure and forcing fluid into the lungsExplanation
When the left ventricle of the heart fails, it is unable to effectively pump blood out to the body. This leads to an increase in pressure in the left atrium and pulmonary veins, causing an increase in capillary hydrostatic pressure in the pulmonary capillaries. The increased pressure forces fluid out of the capillaries and into the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema. This fluid accumulation in the lungs leads to a decrease in plasma oncotic pressure, as the fluid dilutes the protein concentration in the blood. Therefore, the correct answer is increasing capillary hydrostatic pressure and forcing fluid into the lungs.Rate this question:
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- 30.
A pregnant woman notices that her ankls are swollen after standing for 6 hrs. at her place of employment. In the evening when she elevates her feet, the swelling diminshes because
- A.
Capillary bydrostatic pressure in the blood vessels of the lower extremities decrease
- B.
Plasma oncotic pressure decreases
- C.
Plasma oncotic pressure increases
- D.
Lymphatic drainage decreases
Correct Answer
A. Capillary bydrostatic pressure in the blood vessels of the lower extremities decreaseExplanation
When a person stands for a prolonged period, gravity causes an increase in capillary hydrostatic pressure in the blood vessels of the lower extremities. This increased pressure leads to fluid leakage from the capillaries into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling. However, when the woman elevates her feet in the evening, gravity is no longer acting against the blood flow, and the capillary hydrostatic pressure decreases. As a result, the fluid that had leaked into the tissues is reabsorbed back into the capillaries, leading to a decrease in swelling.Rate this question:
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- 31.
An IV infusion of mannitol (a hypertonic sugar solution) is used todecrease intracranial pressure in a head-injured patient because the mannitol
- A.
Provides calories for the lealing of the injured brain
- B.
Is absorbed by the injured brain cells and pulls water into the brain cells from the tissue fluid
- C.
Pulls water out of the interstitium of the brain into the capillaries, thereby relieving edema
- D.
"clumps" the plasma proteins together, thereby severely diminshing plasma oncotic pressure
Correct Answer
C. Pulls water out of the interstitium of the brain into the capillaries, thereby relieving edemaExplanation
The IV infusion of mannitol pulls water out of the interstitium of the brain into the capillaries, thereby relieving edema. This is because mannitol is a hypertonic solution, meaning it has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the surrounding tissue fluid. This creates an osmotic gradient, causing water to move out of the interstitium and into the capillaries. By reducing the amount of fluid in the interstitium, the edema is relieved, which helps decrease intracranial pressure in a head-injured patient.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Capillary hydrostatic pressure is a reflection of
- A.
Plasma proteins
- B.
Albumin
- C.
Lymph
- D.
Blood pressure
Correct Answer
D. Blood pressureExplanation
Capillary hydrostatic pressure is a reflection of blood pressure because it is the pressure exerted by the blood against the walls of the capillaries. This pressure is responsible for pushing fluid out of the capillaries and into the surrounding tissues. Blood pressure is determined by factors such as the force of the heart pumping, the volume of blood in the vessels, and the resistance of the blood vessels. Therefore, blood pressure directly affects the hydrostatic pressure in the capillaries, influencing the movement of fluid and nutrients between the blood and tissues.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following drugs is most likely to increase vascular resistance?
- A.
(+) inotropic agent
- B.
Arteriolar constrictor
- C.
Arteriolar dilator
- D.
Vasodilator
Correct Answer
B. Arteriolar constrictorExplanation
An arteriolar constrictor drug is most likely to increase vascular resistance. Arterioles are small blood vessels that regulate blood flow and resistance in the circulatory system. When these vessels constrict, the diameter decreases, leading to increased resistance to blood flow. This results in an increase in blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the tissues. Therefore, an arteriolar constrictor drug would cause vasoconstriction, leading to increased vascular resistance.Rate this question:
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- 34.
With which word/phrase is afterload most associated?
- A.
Heart rate
- B.
Arteriolar vasoconstriction
- C.
(+) intotropic effect
- D.
Venous return
Correct Answer
B. Arteriolar vasoconstrictionExplanation
Afterload refers to the pressure or resistance that the heart has to overcome in order to pump blood out of the left ventricle and into the aorta. Arteriolar vasoconstriction refers to the narrowing of the arterioles, which increases peripheral vascular resistance and therefore increases afterload. This means that when arteriolar vasoconstriction occurs, the heart has to work harder to pump blood against the increased resistance, leading to an increased afterload. Therefore, arteriolar vasoconstriction is most associated with afterload.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following exerts a vasopressor effect?
- A.
Diuretic
- B.
Alpha1 adrenergic agonist
- C.
Beta1 adrenergic antagonist
- D.
Sympatholytic
Correct Answer
B. Alpha1 adrenergic agonistExplanation
Alpha1 adrenergic agonists exert a vasopressor effect. These drugs stimulate the alpha1 adrenergic receptors in blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction and an increase in blood pressure. This can be beneficial in certain medical conditions where increased blood pressure is desired, such as in the treatment of hypotension or shock. Examples of alpha1 adrenergic agonists include phenylephrine and norepinephrine.Rate this question:
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- 36.
A drug that activates alpha1 adrenergic receptors
- A.
Causes a vasodepressor effect
- B.
Is classified as a (+) inotropic drug
- C.
Elevates blood pressure
- D.
Is classified as an antihypertensive drug
Correct Answer
C. Elevates blood pressureExplanation
A drug that activates alpha1 adrenergic receptors is known to elevate blood pressure. Alpha1 adrenergic receptors are located on smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, and their activation causes vasoconstriction, leading to an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, a drug that activates these receptors would have the effect of elevating blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A newly diagnosed hypertensive patient is started on prazosin. Within the hour, he complains of dizziness and loses consciousness. What has happened?
- A.
The drug activated the baroreceptors causing an intense parasympathetic discharge, thereby increasing blood pressure and precipitating a mild stroke
- B.
The prazosin has decreased his blood pressure too much; the drug-induced hypotension caused the fainting event (syncope)
- C.
The prazosin causes spasm of the cerebral blood vessels, which, in turn, causes loss of consciousness
- D.
The patient experienced a hypertensive crisis
Correct Answer
B. The prazosin has decreased his blood pressure too much; the drug-induced hypotension caused the fainting event (syncope)Explanation
The patient's complaint of dizziness and loss of consciousness shortly after starting prazosin suggests that the drug has caused a significant decrease in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. This drug is an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist, which blocks the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine. By inhibiting the sympathetic response, prazosin can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, resulting in symptoms like dizziness and syncope. This explanation is supported by the fact that the patient's symptoms occurred within an hour of taking the medication.Rate this question:
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