Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test Related

Review Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test related questions and content

What is the name of the structure that prevents food from entering the airway?

  • A. trachea
  • B. esophagus
  • C. diaphragm
  • D. epiglottis
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the airway. It acts as a lid over the trachea during swallowing, directing food to the esophagus instead of the windpipe (trachea). The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that allows air to pass into the lungs, the esophagus (Choice B) is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and the diaphragm (Choice C) is a muscle involved in breathing and not in preventing food passage.