ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam

What is a primary function of the gallbladder?

1. Production of bile

2. Storage of bile

3. Secretion of digestive enzymes

4. Detoxification of blood

The correct answer is: Storage of bile

The primary function of the gallbladder is the storage of bile. The gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. When food, particularly fatty food, enters the small intestine, the gallbladder releases stored bile into the duodenum to aid in the emulsification and absorption of fats. This storage mechanism allows for a more concentrated release of bile when it is most needed for digestion, effectively enhancing the digestive process. While production of bile is a key function of the liver, the gallbladder itself does not produce bile but rather focuses on storing and concentrating it. Secretion of digestive enzymes is a function associated primarily with the pancreas, and the liver plays a significant role in detoxification of blood, but these processes do not involve the gallbladder directly.