as used in the second paragraph what does the term ubiquitous mean

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. As used in the second paragraph, what does the term ubiquitous mean?

A. Indigenous
B. Often ignored
C. Found everywhere
D. Dangerous

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Found everywhere.' Ubiquitous in this context means widespread presence. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that MRSA bacteria have become ubiquitous not only in hospitals but also in various other settings, indicating they are found everywhere. Choice A, 'Indigenous,' is incorrect as it refers to something native or originating from a specific place, which is not the intended meaning in the context. Choice B, 'Often ignored,' is incorrect as ubiquitous means something that is widely present, not something that is ignored. Choice D, 'Dangerous,' is incorrect as ubiquitous does not directly imply danger, but rather the widespread presence of something.

2. What is the author's main argument in the passage on the Electoral College?

A. The Electoral College ensures that all states have a say in elections.
B. The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.
C. The Electoral College should be abolished.
D. The Electoral College was created to favor larger states.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.' The passage discusses the Electoral College system, highlighting its complexities and the discrepancy between the popular vote and electoral vote outcomes. It mentions the confusion and the case of the 2000 election where the popular vote winner did not become president. The main argument is that the system is outdated and requires reforms to align with modern democratic principles. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not focus on ensuring all states have a say but rather on the need for reform. Choice C is not the main argument presented in the passage; while the passage mentions confusion, it does not explicitly call for abolition. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that the Electoral College was created to favor larger states; instead, it discusses the allocation of electoral votes based on Congressional representation and population.

3. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage?

A. Many patients die each year from medical error.
B. Lifewings Partners educates patients on consumer safety.
C. Steve Harden is the founder of Lifewings Partners.
D. The most common medical error is overmedication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage discusses the dangers of medical errors and provides specific examples of such errors but does not indicate that overmedication is the most common error. Therefore, since option D is not supported by the text, it is the correct choice for what is not mentioned.

4. What is the meaning of the word 'pathogens' as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. diseases
B. vaccines
C. disease-causing substances
D. foods

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context provided, 'pathogens' refers to disease-causing substances such as bacteria and viruses. These microorganisms can contaminate food and lead to foodborne illnesses. Choice A ('diseases') is incorrect as pathogens themselves cause diseases but are not diseases. Choice B ('vaccines') is incorrect as vaccines are used to prevent diseases caused by pathogens. Choice D ('foods') is incorrect as pathogens are not foods, but rather contaminants that can be found in food.

5. What would be the best title for this passage?

A. Being a Team in PE
B. A New Kind of Grade
C. Learning Martial Arts
D. PE for School and Life

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best title for this passage is 'PE for School and Life' as it encapsulates the broader purpose of physical education described in the extract. The passage emphasizes teaching students lifelong fitness habits, instilling lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and introducing exercise that can be incorporated into their lives. The focus is on fitness as a lifelong skill rather than just a short-term activity for a good grade. Choice A, 'Being a Team in PE,' is incorrect as the passage highlights individual exercise and movement rather than team-based activities. Choice B, 'A New Kind of Grade,' is also incorrect as the passage mentions a shift in grading towards effort rather than specific performance tasks. Choice C, 'Learning Martial Arts,' is too narrow as the passage discusses a variety of activities beyond martial arts that are taught in modern PE classes.