NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

Which enzyme is primarily responsible for the digestion of carbohydrates in the small intestine?

  • A. Pepsin
  • B. Lipase
  • C. Amylase
  • D. Trypsin
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Amylase. Amylase is primarily responsible for digesting carbohydrates in the small intestine. It breaks down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose. Pepsin (A) is a stomach enzyme that breaks down proteins, not carbohydrates. Lipase (B) digests fats, not carbohydrates. Trypsin (D) is a pancreatic enzyme that digests proteins, not carbohydrates. Amylase is the only enzyme among the choices that specifically targets carbohydrates for digestion in the small intestine.