Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What is the role of the pleura in the human body?

1. Absorption of nutrients

2. Protection of the brain

3. Internal temperature regulation

4. Envelope around the lungs

The correct answer is: Envelope around the lungs

The role of the pleura in the human body is to serve as an envelope around the lungs. This double-layered membrane consists of the visceral pleura, which adheres to the surface of the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest wall. The pleura produces pleural fluid, which facilitates smooth movement of the lungs during respiration and reduces friction as the lungs expand and contract. Additionally, it helps maintain a pressure gradient that is essential for lung inflation. The other options do not accurately represent the function of the pleura. Absorption of nutrients is related to the digestive system, the protection of the brain pertains to the skull and protective membranes such as the meninges, and internal temperature regulation is primarily managed by the body's thermoregulatory systems rather than the pleura.