What is the main function of the Na-K pump at the cellular level?
Move Na inside the cell
Move K out of the cell
Move Na out of the cell
Move Na and K inside the cell
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Move Na Inside the Cell
The primary function of the Na-K pump, also known as the sodium-potassium pump, is to move sodium (Na) ions out of the cell, not into the cell. This pump actively transports three sodium ions out of the cell for every two potassium ions it brings in. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B: Move K Out of the Cell
The Na-K pump moves potassium (K) ions into the cell, not out of the cell. This active transport mechanism helps maintain the necessary concentration gradients of sodium and potassium across the cell membrane, which are crucial for various cellular functions, including maintaining the resting membrane potential.
Choice C: Move Na Out of the Cell
The main function of the Na-K pump is to move sodium ions out of the cell. For every cycle of the pump, three sodium ions are exported out of the cell, and two potassium ions are imported into the cell. This process is essential for maintaining the electrochemical gradient across the cell membrane, which is vital for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and overall cellular homeostasis.
Choice D: Move Na and K Inside the Cell
This choice is incorrect because the Na-K pump does not move both sodium and potassium ions inside the cell. Instead, it moves sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell. This active transport mechanism is crucial for maintaining the proper ionic balance and membrane potential necessary for various physiological processes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Hypoventilation
Hypoventilation refers to inadequate ventilation that leads to an increased concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, resulting in respiratory acidosis. This condition is characterized by a decrease in blood pH due to the accumulation of CO2, which forms carbonic acid. Hypoventilation does not cause metabolic acidosis, as it primarily affects the respiratory component of acid-base balance.
Choice B: Massive Blood Transfusion
Massive blood transfusion can lead to metabolic alkalosis rather than metabolic acidosis. This is because stored blood products often contain citrate, which is metabolized to bicarbonate in the liver, increasing the blood’s alkalinity. Additionally, the transfusion of large volumes of blood can dilute the plasma bicarbonate concentration, but this typically does not result in metabolic acidosis.
Choice C: Kidney Failure
Kidney failure is a common cause of metabolic acidosis. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance by excreting hydrogen ions (H+) and reabsorbing bicarbonate (HCO3-). When the kidneys fail, they are unable to remove sufficient acids from the blood, leading to an accumulation of metabolic acids and a decrease in blood pH. This condition is known as metabolic acidosis and can result from chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI).
Choice D: Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation leads to respiratory alkalosis, not metabolic acidosis. This condition occurs when there is excessive ventilation, causing a decrease in CO2 levels in the blood and an increase in blood pH. Hyperventilation reduces the concentration of carbonic acid, leading to an alkaline state. It does not contribute to metabolic acidosis, which involves an imbalance in the metabolic components of acid-base regulation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) plays a role in regulating body temperature. It does this by controlling the dilation and constriction of blood vessels in the skin, which helps to dissipate or conserve heat as needed. Therefore, the statement that the SNS regulates body temperature is correct.
Choice B Reason:
The SNS is crucial in regulating the cardiovascular system. It increases heart rate and the force of heart contractions, and it also causes vasoconstriction, which raises blood pressure. This statement is accurate and does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice C Reason:
This is the correct answer. The SNS generally inhibits digestive functions during the “fight-or-flight” response. It reduces blood flow to the digestive organs, decreases peristalsis, and inhibits digestive secretions. Therefore, the statement that the SNS regulates digestive functions is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching.
Choice D Reason:
The SNS is responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response, which prepares the body to respond to perceived threats. This includes increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy stores. This statement is correct and does not indicate a need for further teaching.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.