Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam Practice 2025 – Comprehensive Prep

The statement regarding prostaglandins that is not accurate is that they can only constrict blood vessels. Prostaglandins are a group of lipid compounds that have diverse effects in the body, including both vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive properties, depending on the specific type of prostaglandin and the context in which they are acting. For instance, certain prostaglandins can cause blood vessels to dilate, thereby increasing blood flow to tissues, while others may induce constriction. This duality in their function highlights their complex role in various physiological processes, including inflammation and hemostasis.

In terms of the other statements, it is true that prostaglandins promote inflammation and are known to lead to pain and fever, which are important aspects of the body's immune response. They are also synthesized in various tissues, including the renal medulla, where they play significant roles in regulating kidney function and blood flow. Understanding the multifaceted nature of prostaglandins is crucial for grasping their implications in both normal physiology and pathophysiological conditions.