NCLEX Questions on Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions on Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

Most of the absorption of nutrients occurs in the _____.

  • A. colon
  • B. duodenum
  • C. jejunum
  • D. ileum
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: jejunum. The jejunum is the middle part of the small intestine where the majority of nutrient absorption takes place. Its large surface area, due to the presence of villi and microvilli, facilitates efficient absorption of nutrients. The duodenum (B) primarily aids in digestion, not absorption. The ileum (D) absorbs bile salts and vitamin B12, but most nutrient absorption occurs in the jejunum. The colon (A) primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. Therefore, the jejunum is the correct answer for the site of most nutrient absorption in the digestive system.