Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which of the following is a primary function of the liver?

1. Production of insulin

2. Production of bile

3. Production of adrenaline

4. Production of glucagon

The correct answer is: Production of bile

The liver has several vital functions, one of which is the production of bile. Bile is a digestive fluid that is crucial for the emulsification and absorption of fats in the intestine. It helps to break down fats into smaller particles, making it easier for enzymes to act on them and facilitating the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Additionally, bile contributes to the elimination of certain waste products, such as bilirubin, which is a breakdown product of hemoglobin from red blood cells. In contrast to the liver’s role in bile production, insulin and glucagon are hormones produced by the pancreas, which is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Adrenaline, or epinephrine, is produced by the adrenal glands and plays a role in the body's fight-or-flight response. Each organ has unique functions that are essential for maintaining the body's overall homeostasis, and understanding these distinctions is critical in the study of human biology and nursing.