HESI A2
HESI A2 Vocabulary 2023
1. Select the meaning of the word 'reflex' in the sentence: 'The typical patellar reflex takes only 50 milliseconds between the initial tap and the leg extension.'
- A. Replication
- B. Convulsion
- C. Reaction
- D. Stretching
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the context of the sentence, the word 'reflex' indicates a quick, automatic response by the body to a stimulus. The patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex, involves the leg extending in response to a tap on the patellar tendon. Therefore, the word 'reaction' aligns closely with the nature of the patellar reflex in terms of a rapid and involuntary response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: 'Replication' does not capture the concept of a bodily response, 'convulsion' implies a sudden and uncontrollable movement which is not specific to the nature of the patellar reflex, and 'stretching' does not encompass the automatic and rapid nature of a reflex action.
2. What is the best description for the term cathartic?
- A. Infested
- B. Therapeutic
- C. Fatiguing
- D. Supplementing
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The term 'cathartic' is best described as therapeutic because it refers to something that provides emotional release or purification. It helps in relieving emotional tension, which is a therapeutic benefit. 'Infested' means being invaded by pests, 'Fatiguing' means causing tiredness or exhaustion, and 'Supplementing' means adding to or enhancing something, none of which accurately describe the term 'cathartic.'
3. To which part of the human body does 'superior' refer?
- A. Top
- B. Bottom
- C. Front
- D. Back
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In human anatomy, the term 'superior' refers to a position or structure that is closer to the top of the body or situated above another structure in relation to the standard anatomical position. This means that choice A, 'Top,' is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the anatomical meaning of 'superior.' Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they refer to different anatomical directions that are not synonymous with 'superior.' 'Bottom' (choice B) refers to 'inferior,' 'Front' (choice C) relates to 'anterior,' and 'Back' (choice D) corresponds to 'posterior.'
4. A stye is an infection of the ___________.
- A. eyelid
- B. eardrum
- C. nostril
- D. scalp
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A stye is an infection that occurs at the base of an eyelash or on the eyelid. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection, leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes discomfort in the affected area. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a stye specifically refers to an infection of the eyelid area, not the eardrum, nostril, or scalp.
5. Replete is best defined as being ___________.
- A. hardy
- B. quiet
- C. full
- D. sad
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Replete means filled to the utmost capacity or complete in every detail. Therefore, the best definition of replete from the given choices is 'full.' Choice A, 'hardy,' does not accurately reflect the meaning of replete. Choice B, 'quiet,' is unrelated to the definition of replete. Choice D, 'sad,' is also not synonymous with the term replete.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days
- 3,000 Questions with answers
- 30 days access @ $99
HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- Actual HESI A 2 Questions
- 3,000 questions with answers
- 90 days access @ $149.99