What is the cause of hydropic swelling?
Oncogene activation.
Sodium/potassium pump dysfunction.
Membrane rupture.
ATP accumulation.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: Oncogene Activation
Oncogene activation refers to the process by which normal genes (proto-oncogenes) become oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and potentially cancer. This process involves mutations or overexpression of genes that regulate cell proliferation and survival. While oncogene activation is a critical factor in cancer development, it is not directly related to hydropic swelling, which is a form of cellular injury characterized by the accumulation of water within cells.
Choice B: Sodium/Potassium Pump Dysfunction
Hydropic swelling, also known as cellular swelling, results from the malfunction of the sodium/potassium (Na+/K+) pump. This pump is essential for maintaining the ionic balance within cells by actively transporting sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell. When the Na+/K+ pump fails, sodium accumulates inside the cell, leading to an influx of water to balance the osmotic pressure. This results in cellular swelling, which is a hallmark of reversible cell injury.
Choice C: Membrane Rupture
Membrane rupture refers to the breaking of the cell membrane, which can lead to cell death and the release of cellular contents into the surrounding tissue. This process is typically associated with irreversible cell injury and necrosis. While membrane rupture can result from severe cellular damage, it is not the primary cause of hydropic swelling, which occurs due to ionic imbalances rather than physical disruption of the cell membrane.
Choice D: ATP Accumulation
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency of the cell, used to power various cellular processes. Accumulation of ATP within the cell is not typically associated with cellular swelling. In fact, a decrease in ATP levels, rather than an accumulation, is more likely to contribute to cellular injury. Reduced ATP levels can impair the function of the Na+/K+ pump, leading to ionic imbalances and subsequent hydropic swelling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Calcium
Calcium plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve transmission. While calcium is essential for maintaining overall health, it is not directly associated with changes in blood pH. Calcium levels are tightly regulated by hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin, but these do not significantly influence blood pH.
Choice B: Sodium
Sodium is a major extracellular electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Although sodium is vital for maintaining osmotic balance and blood pressure, it does not directly affect blood pH. Sodium levels are primarily controlled by the kidneys and hormones like aldosterone, which do not have a direct impact on the acid-base balance of the blood.
Choice C: Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and blood glucose control. While magnesium is important for overall health, it does not have a direct role in altering blood pH. Magnesium levels are regulated by the kidneys and are essential for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, but they do not directly influence the acid-base balance.
Choice D: Potassium
Potassium is a key intracellular electrolyte that plays a significant role in maintaining the acid-base balance of the blood. Changes in potassium levels can affect the pH of the blood. For example, hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) can lead to acidosis, while hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can lead to alkalosis. Potassium helps regulate the hydrogen ion concentration in the blood, which directly impacts the pH. Therefore, potassium is the electrolyte most closely associated with changes in blood pH.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Bronchoconstriction is the narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to the tightening of surrounding smooth muscle. This response is typically associated with conditions like asthma and is not a common reaction to acute stress. During stress, the sympathetic nervous system actually causes bronchodilation to increase airflow and oxygen delivery to the muscles.
Choice B Reason:
This is the correct answer. Increased glucose production is a typical response to acute stress. The body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which stimulate the liver to produce more glucose. This process, known as glycogenolysis, ensures that the body has enough energy to handle the stressor. This response is part of the “fight-or-flight” mechanism, preparing the body for immediate physical activity.
Choice C Reason:
Decreased cortisol release is not expected during acute stress. In fact, cortisol levels typically increase as part of the body’s stress response. Cortisol helps to mobilize energy stores, suppress inflammation, and support cardiovascular function. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D Reason:
Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not a typical response to acute stress. Instead, the sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate (tachycardia) to ensure that more blood is pumped to vital organs and muscles. This helps the body to respond more effectively to the stressor.
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