Vocabulary HESI A2 Practice Test

1. If a nurse is CIRCUMSPECT with patient records, what is she doing?

• A. Acting carelessly
• B. Guarded
• C. Reckless
• D. Neglecting

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Guarded.' Circumspect means to be cautious or guarded. In this context, being circumspect with patient records implies being careful and cautious in handling them, maintaining confidentiality and privacy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because circumspect does not mean acting carelessly, reckless, or neglecting; instead, it suggests being watchful and discreet.

2. Which word names a medicine whose purpose is to induce vomiting?

• A. Laxative
• B. Emetic
• C. Vaccine
• D. Analgesic

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Emetic.' An emetic is a medication specifically designed to induce vomiting. This helps the body expel toxic substances or clear the stomach. Choice A, 'Laxative,' aids in relieving constipation by promoting bowel movements, not inducing vomiting. Choice C, 'Vaccine,' is a substance used to stimulate the immune system against specific diseases, not to induce vomiting. Choice D, 'Analgesic,' refers to a medication used to relieve pain, not to induce vomiting. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect in the context of inducing vomiting.

3. A patient who is Querulous might be guilty of __________

• A. Complaining
• B. Sleeping
• C. Shouting
• D. Crying

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Complaining.' Querulous means to be habitually complaining or whining. It is characterized by a tendency to find fault or raise petty objections. This behavior aligns with the definition of being querulous. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the meaning of querulous. Sleeping, shouting, or crying are not behaviors typically associated with being querulous.

4. If a theory is obsolete, what is true of it?

• A. Up to date
• B. Outdated
• C. Innovative
• D. Scientific

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Outdated.' When something is described as 'obsolete,' it means that it is outdated or no longer in use. Therefore, an obsolete theory is no longer current or relevant. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because an obsolete theory is not considered up to date, innovative, or necessarily scientific; it is outdated and no longer relevant in its field.

5. What does the term 'Precept' mean?

• A. A rule
• B. A guiding principle
• C. A habit
• D. A punishment

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The term 'Precept' refers to a guiding principle rather than just a rule, habit, or punishment. A precept is a general rule or principle guiding behavior, making choice B the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a precept is more than just a simple rule, habit, or punishment; it encompasses a fundamental guiding principle that influences actions and decisions.