THE BODY 17TH EDITION AUTHOR KEVIN T
PATTON,THOMPSON,WILLIAMSON UPDATED
2026 NCLEX QUESTIONS
,Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction to the Body
Chapter 2. Chemistry of Life
Chapter 3. Cells
Chapter 4. Tissues
Chapter 5. Organ Systems
Chapter 6. Skin and Membranes
Chapter 7. Skeletal System
Chapter 8. Muscular System
Chapter 9. Nervous System
Chapter 10. Senses
Chapter 11. Endocrine System
Chapter 12. Blood
Chapter 13. Cardiovascular System
Chapter 14. Lymphatic System and Immunity
Chapter 15. Respiratory System
Chapter 16. Digestive System
Chapter 17. Nutrition and Metabolism
Chapter 18. Urinary System
Chapter 19. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
Chapter 20. Acid-Base Balance
Chapter 21. Reproductive Systems
Chapter 22. Growth, Development, and Aging
,CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE BODY
Summary
This chapter introduces basic principles of human anatomy and physiology,
including levels of organization, anatomical terminology, body cavities,
homeostasis, and feedback mechanisms. Understanding these foundational
concepts enables nurses to accurately assess patients, communicate clearly,
recognize deviations from normal structure and function, and apply clinical
judgment to promote safety, stability, and effective patient-centered care across
all settings.
1. A nursing student is reviewing basic anatomy concepts. Which level of
organization is composed of similar cells performing a common function?
A. Organ
B. Tissue
C. System
D. Organism
THE CORRECT ANSWER: B
Rationale: Tissues consist of groups of similar cells performing a
specific function. Organs and systems involve multiple tissue types.
2. The nurse explains that the heart and blood vessels working together
represent which level of organization?
A. Cellular
B. Tissue
C. Organ
D. Organ system
THE CORRECT ANSWER: D
Rationale: An organ system is a group of organs working together to
perform a major body function, such as circulation.
3. A patient asks why maintaining a stable internal environment is
important. Which concept is the nurse describing?
A. Metabolism
B. Homeostasis
C. Organization
D. Adaptation
THE CORRECT ANSWER: B
Rationale: Homeostasis refers to the body’s ability to maintain internal
stability despite external changes.
4. Which example best demonstrates negative feedback?
A. Blood clot formation
B. Childbirth contractions
, C. Regulation of body temperature
D. Growth hormone release during puberty
THE CORRECT ANSWER: C
Rationale: Negative feedback counteracts change, such as sweating or
shivering to regulate body temperature.
5. A nurse documents pain located in the right upper quadrant. Which organ
is most likely involved?
A. Appendix
B. Liver
C. Urinary bladder
D. Sigmoid colon
THE CORRECT ANSWER: B
Rationale: The liver is located primarily in the right upper quadrant of
the abdominal cavity.
6. During assessment, the nurse notes a wound on the anterior surface of the
forearm. What does anterior mean?
A. Toward the back
B. Toward the head
C. Toward the front
D. Toward the midline
THE CORRECT ANSWER: C
Rationale: Anterior refers to the front surface of the body; posterior
refers to the back.
7. Which cavity protects the lungs and heart?
A. Abdominal
B. Pelvic
C. Thoracic
D. Cranial
THE CORRECT ANSWER: C
Rationale: The thoracic cavity contains and protects the heart and lungs.
8. A patient with a head injury requires protection of which body cavity?
A. Vertebral
B. Thoracic
C. Cranial
D. Abdominal
THE CORRECT ANSWER: C
Rationale: The cranial cavity houses and protects the brain.
9. Which term describes movement away from the midline of the body?
A. Medial
B. Proximal
C. Distal
D. Lateral