How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

In the context of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, what is the primary role of the hypothalamus?

A.

To increase blood glucose levels directly

B.

To store and release oxytocin

C.

To secrete corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)

D.

To produce aldosterone

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. To increase blood glucose levels directly: The hypothalamus does not directly raise blood glucose; it regulates hormones that influence this process indirectly via other glands.
B. To store and release oxytocin: Oxytocin is stored and released by the posterior pituitary, not the hypothalamus itself.
C. To secrete corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH): The hypothalamus produces and releases CRH, which stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete ACTH, initiating the HPA axis cascade leading to cortisol release.
D. To produce aldosterone: Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, not by the hypothalamus.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. To increase blood glucose levels directly:The hypothalamus does not directly raise blood glucose; it regulates hormones that influence this process indirectly via other glands.
B. To store and release oxytocin:Oxytocin is stored and released by the posterior pituitary, not the hypothalamus itself.
C. To secrete corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH):The hypothalamus produces and releases CRH, which stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete ACTH, initiating the HPA axis cascade leading to cortisol release.
D. To produce aldosterone:Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, not by the hypothalamus.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH):GHRH from the hypothalamus stimulates growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary, not thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
B. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH):GnRH stimulates the anterior pituitary to release LH and FSH, which regulate the gonads rather than TSH.
C. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH):CRH triggers ACTH release from the anterior pituitary, which acts on the adrenal cortex, not TSH.
D. Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH):TRH from the hypothalamus specifically stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete TSH, which in turn acts on the thyroid gland.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register