NUR 631/NUR631 Exam 2 V3 | Advanced
Physiology and Pathophysiology Q&A with
Rationale | Grand Canyon University
1. A patient presents with a GFR of 45 mL/min/1.73 m2. According to the stages of chronic
kidney disease (CKD), which stage does this represent?
A. Stage 1
B. Stage 3
C. Stage 2
D. Stage 4
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Stage 3 CKD is defined as a moderately decreased GFR between 30
and 59 mL/min. This stage indicates significant loss of renal function and requires close
monitoring of electrolytes and blood pressure. The classification helps determine the risk
of progression to end-stage renal disease.
2. Which hormone is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of water in the collecting
ducts of the kidneys?
A. Aldosterone
B. Renin
C. Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)
,D. Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Antidiuretic Hormone, also known as vasopressin, acts on the V2
receptors in the collecting duct. It increases the permeability of the duct to water by
inserting aquaporin channels into the membrane. This mechanism allows the body to
conserve water and concentrate urine during periods of dehydration.
3. What is the hallmark physiological finding in patients with Nephrotic Syndrome?
A. Heavy proteinuria (>3.5g/day)
B. Gross hematuria
C. Severe hypertension
D. Elevated serum albumin
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by massive protein loss in the
urine exceeding 3.5 grams per day. This loss occurs due to increased permeability of the
glomerular basement membrane. The resulting hypoalbuminemia leads to decreased
oncotic pressure and widespread peripheral edema.
4. In the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), what is the direct effect of
Angiotensin II on blood vessels?
A. Vasodilation
, B. Vasoconstriction
C. Increased capillary permeability
D. Inhibition of smooth muscle growth
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that increases systemic
vascular resistance and blood pressure. It acts on AT1 receptors located on the vascular
smooth muscle to cause contraction. This response is a critical compensatory mechanism
for maintaining perfusion during states of low blood volume.
5. A patient is diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia. What is the underlying cause of this
condition?
A. Chronic blood loss
B. Lack of dietary iron intake
C. Bone marrow suppression
D. Lack of intrinsic factor for Vitamin B12 absorption
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition where the body
attacks gastric parietal cells or intrinsic factor directly. Intrinsic factor is essential for the
absorption of vitamin B12 in the terminal ileum. Without B12, the body cannot produce
healthy red blood cells, leading to macrocytic anemia.
Physiology and Pathophysiology Q&A with
Rationale | Grand Canyon University
1. A patient presents with a GFR of 45 mL/min/1.73 m2. According to the stages of chronic
kidney disease (CKD), which stage does this represent?
A. Stage 1
B. Stage 3
C. Stage 2
D. Stage 4
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Stage 3 CKD is defined as a moderately decreased GFR between 30
and 59 mL/min. This stage indicates significant loss of renal function and requires close
monitoring of electrolytes and blood pressure. The classification helps determine the risk
of progression to end-stage renal disease.
2. Which hormone is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of water in the collecting
ducts of the kidneys?
A. Aldosterone
B. Renin
C. Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)
,D. Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Antidiuretic Hormone, also known as vasopressin, acts on the V2
receptors in the collecting duct. It increases the permeability of the duct to water by
inserting aquaporin channels into the membrane. This mechanism allows the body to
conserve water and concentrate urine during periods of dehydration.
3. What is the hallmark physiological finding in patients with Nephrotic Syndrome?
A. Heavy proteinuria (>3.5g/day)
B. Gross hematuria
C. Severe hypertension
D. Elevated serum albumin
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by massive protein loss in the
urine exceeding 3.5 grams per day. This loss occurs due to increased permeability of the
glomerular basement membrane. The resulting hypoalbuminemia leads to decreased
oncotic pressure and widespread peripheral edema.
4. In the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), what is the direct effect of
Angiotensin II on blood vessels?
A. Vasodilation
, B. Vasoconstriction
C. Increased capillary permeability
D. Inhibition of smooth muscle growth
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that increases systemic
vascular resistance and blood pressure. It acts on AT1 receptors located on the vascular
smooth muscle to cause contraction. This response is a critical compensatory mechanism
for maintaining perfusion during states of low blood volume.
5. A patient is diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia. What is the underlying cause of this
condition?
A. Chronic blood loss
B. Lack of dietary iron intake
C. Bone marrow suppression
D. Lack of intrinsic factor for Vitamin B12 absorption
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition where the body
attacks gastric parietal cells or intrinsic factor directly. Intrinsic factor is essential for the
absorption of vitamin B12 in the terminal ileum. Without B12, the body cannot produce
healthy red blood cells, leading to macrocytic anemia.
