A nurse is assessing a pediatric patient with suspected endocrine dysfunction. Which statement best reflects an understanding of the role of the endocrine system in maintaining homeostasis and regulating body functions?

It communicates with the body primarily through nerve impulses to regulate growth and metabolism.

It relies solely on positive feedback mechanisms to control hormone release and body responses.

It regulates body functions by secreting hormones from glands that target specific organs to maintain homeostasis and support growth, metabolism, and development.

it produces digestive enzymes exclusively to aid in metabolism and nutrient absorption,