NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

In the production of the aqueous component of pancreatic juice, ______ ions are actively transported into the intercalated duct and sodium ions are exchanged for ______ ions.

  • A. bicarbonate; hydrogen
  • B. sodium; potassium
  • C. bicarbonate; potassium
  • D. hydrogen; potassium
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because in the production of pancreatic juice, bicarbonate ions are actively transported into the intercalated duct to ensure the alkalinity of the pancreatic juice. Additionally, sodium ions are exchanged for hydrogen ions to maintain the pH balance. This process helps neutralize the acidic chyme entering the small intestine from the stomach. The other choices are incorrect because potassium ions are not directly involved in this specific process, and the exchange of sodium ions for potassium ions does not contribute to the regulation of pancreatic juice pH.