NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

Bile production by the liver cells is increased by:

  • A. Sympathetic activation
  • B. Secretin
  • C. CCK
  • D. Bile salts
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: CCK. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a hormone released by the small intestine in response to the presence of fatty acids and amino acids. It stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder and increases bile production by the liver cells to aid in digestion. Sympathetic activation (choice A) typically inhibits digestive functions. Secretin (choice B) primarily stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate secretion, not bile production. Bile salts (choice D) are products of bile, not direct stimulators of bile production. Therefore, CCK is the correct choice as it directly influences the production of bile by the liver cells.