Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of serous membranes in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They occur in pairs, separated by serous fluid, and line body cavities that are closed to the exterior, reducing friction between organs.

Question 2

A patient presents with a yellowish tint to their skin and eyes. Which pigment and underlying condition is most likely responsible for this appearance?

Accepted Answer

Bilirubin; liver dysfunction (jaundice)

Question 3

Which of the following statements about the epidermis is correct?

Accepted Answer

It contains keratinocytes that produce a fibrous protein called keratin, making it tough and water-resistant.

Question 4

A burn patient is admitted with burns covering the anterior and posterior surfaces of both lower limbs and the anterior trunk. Using the rule of nines, what percentage of the body surface area is affected?

Accepted Answer

$54\%$

Question 5

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of apocrine sweat glands compared to eccrine sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

They empty into hair follicles in the axillary and genital regions and produce sweat containing fatty acids and proteins.

Question 6

A patient with a third-degree burn on the hand is at risk for which of the following complications, and why is skin grafting necessary?

Accepted Answer

Infection and dehydration; because the epidermis and dermis are destroyed and cannot regenerate.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the skin is considered an organ of excretion?

Accepted Answer

It secretes urea and uric acid through sweat glands.

Question 8

A patient presents with a scaly, reddened papule on the scalp that forms a shallow ulcer. Which type of skin cancer is most likely, and what is its typical origin?

Accepted Answer

Squamous cell carcinoma; arises from the stratum spinosum

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the role of the arrector pili muscle?

Accepted Answer

It contracts to pull the hair upright, causing 'goosebumps' when cold or frightened.

Question 10

A patient with a history of trauma presents with a bluish-black mark on the skin. What is the most likely cause of this discoloration?

Accepted Answer

A hematoma due to blood escaping from broken blood vessels

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of the dermal papillae in the papillary layer of the dermis?

Accepted Answer

They increase friction and gripping ability, especially on the palms and soles.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why the stratum corneum is important for the skin's protective function?

Accepted Answer

It is composed of dead, keratinized cells that form a tough, water-resistant barrier.

Question 13

A patient is diagnosed with psoriasis, which is characterized by red, scaly lesions. Which of the following is a likely trigger for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Trauma, infection, hormonal changes, or stress

Question 14

Which of the following is true regarding the difference between mucous and serous membranes?

Accepted Answer

Mucous membranes line body cavities that open to the exterior and are adapted for absorption or secretion, while serous membranes line closed body cavities and reduce friction.

Question 15

A patient with a severe burn is at risk for circulatory shock. Which physiological process best explains this risk?

Accepted Answer

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance due to loss of body fluids through the damaged skin

Question 16

Which of the following is a characteristic of synovial membranes?

Accepted Answer

They line the fibrous capsules surrounding joints and secrete a lubricating fluid.

Question 17

A patient presents with a shiny, dome-shaped nodule on the face that develops a central ulcer. Which type of skin cancer is most likely, and what is its typical prognosis?

Accepted Answer

Basal cell carcinoma; least malignant and most common type

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the ABCDE rule for recognizing malignant melanoma?

Accepted Answer

A = Asymmetry, B = Border irregularity, C = Color variation, D = Diameter > 6 mm, E = Evolution

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of the integumentary system related to temperature regulation?

Accepted Answer

It regulates heat loss by activating sweat glands and controlling blood flow to the skin.

Question 20

A patient with a second-degree burn will most likely exhibit which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Red, painful, and blistered skin; both the epidermis and superficial dermis are damaged.

Skin and Body Membranes: Structure and Function

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