Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Enzymatic digestion and absorption of nutrients

Question 2

A patient presents with yellowing of the skin and eyes. Laboratory tests reveal a buildup of bilirubin. Which organ is most likely dysfunctional, and what is the condition called?

Accepted Answer

Liver; jaundice

Question 3

Which of the following correctly lists the four major layers of the digestive tract from superficial to deep?

Accepted Answer

Serosa, muscularis externa, submucosa, mucosa

Question 4

A high-fat meal will most directly increase the secretion of which hormone, and what is its primary effect?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK); stimulates release of bile and pancreatic enzymes

Question 5

Which anatomical feature of the stomach wall allows it to churn and mix its contents into chyme?

Accepted Answer

Presence of three layers of smooth muscle: circular, longitudinal, and oblique

Question 6

A patient with a damaged parotid salivary gland would have the most difficulty digesting which nutrient in the oral cavity?

Accepted Answer

Starches

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the function of lacteals in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Transport absorbed fatty acids as chylomicrons into the lymphatic system

Question 8

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the passage of bile from the liver to the duodenum?

Accepted Answer

Right and left hepatic ducts → common hepatic duct → common bile duct → duodenal ampulla

Question 9

Which of the following statements about peristalsis and segmentation is correct?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis is more efficient than segmentation at propelling intestinal contents

Question 10

A patient with a peptic ulcer is prescribed antibiotics. Which bacterium is most likely responsible for their condition?

Accepted Answer

Helicobacter pylori

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why degenerative changes in the liver can lead to extensive bleeding?

Accepted Answer

The liver synthesizes clotting factors, so damage impairs blood coagulation

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a function of the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Enzymatic digestion of proteins

Question 13

A patient with portal hypertension is at risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Extensive bleeding from ruptured veins and capillaries

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of the submucosal plexus in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Innervates the mucosa and submucosa, regulating glandular secretions

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a salivary gland and its primary secretion?

Accepted Answer

Parotid gland – salivary amylase

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of parietal cells in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor

Question 17

A patient with gallstones blocking the common bile duct would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Impaired digestion and absorption of dietary fats

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the composition of feces?

Accepted Answer

75% water, 5% bacteria, and a mixture of indigestible materials, inorganic matter, and epithelial cell remains

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct description of the brush border in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

A carpet of microvilli on the surface of villi, containing enzymes for final digestion

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why segmentation is important in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

It mixes and churns intestinal contents, enhancing contact with digestive enzymes and absorption

The Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Disorders

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