NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

Which type of cell in the stomach secretes hydrochloric acid?

  • A. parietal cells
  • B. chief cells
  • C. mucous cells
  • D. enteric cells
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: parietal cells. Parietal cells are the specific type of cell in the stomach responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid. They play a crucial role in the digestion process by creating an acidic environment necessary for the activation of digestive enzymes and breakdown of food. Chief cells mainly produce pepsinogen, mucous cells secrete mucus for protection, and enteric cells are related to the enteric nervous system, not acid secretion in the stomach. Therefore, parietal cells are the correct choice for this question.