choose the best summary of the passage about microbes

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Choose the best summary of the passage about microbes.

A. Scientists have discovered the importance of certain bacteria for a well-functioning immune system, especially in defending against pathogens. The colonization of microbes in the body begins at birth, with the immune system relying on these bacteria for proper function.
B. The passage discusses the role of bacteria in the development of the human immune system. It highlights that the body supports various microorganisms crucial for immunity, starting from birth. The presence of harmless bacteria is essential for the immune system to work effectively.
C. The body hosts a vast number of microorganisms critical for immune system development. Harmless bacteria are necessary for the immune system to defend against pathogens effectively. Early research shows promising results in fecal bacteriotherapy for restoring the immune system's ability to fight off harmful invaders.
D. Microbes play a pivotal role in human health, particularly in immune system development. The introduction of healthy bacteria is essential for the immune system to function correctly. Fecal bacteriotherapy is a novel approach to reintroducing beneficial bacteria into a compromised colon to enhance immune response.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage emphasizes the importance of certain bacteria for a properly functioning immune system. It discusses how harmless bacteria play a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on the immune system's response to certain types of bacteria in lower organisms, not the overall importance of bacteria for immunity. Choice B is incorrect as it mainly discusses bacteriotherapy in relation to the reconstruction of a damaged colon, rather than the broader role of bacteria in immune system health. Choice D is incorrect as it only talks about the process of replacing harmful bacteria with harmless ones, missing the key point about the necessity of certain bacteria for immune system function.

2. 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.

3. Which of the following statements is a fact?

A. Nurses should watch for jaundice in newborns.
B. Untreated jaundice may cause brain damage.
C. Phototherapy blankets are a valuable invention.
D. Avoid neonatal units that lack phototherapy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Untreated jaundice may cause brain damage.' This statement is a fact supported by the passage. Neonatal jaundice, if left untreated, can lead to brain damage due to excess bilirubin levels in the blood. Choice A is not a fact but a general guideline for nurses. Choice C is an opinion as it describes phototherapy blankets as valuable without citing a specific fact. Choice D is not a fact but a recommendation, advising to avoid neonatal units lacking phototherapy.

4. The passage mentions all of these uses for microscopy EXCEPT ___________.

A. Ear surgery
B. Amputations
C. Vasectomies
D. Reconstructions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage discusses various uses of microscopy in surgery, including ear surgery, amputations, and reconstructions. However, vasectomies are not mentioned as an application of microscopy in the text. Therefore, vasectomies are the exception among the listed uses. Choices A, B, and D are supported by details in the extract, making them incorrect answers. The passage highlights the uses of microscopy in delicate ear operations, repairing blood vessels in partially amputated limbs, and improving breast reconstructions. While vasectomies are mentioned briefly in the extract, they are not connected to the application of microscopy in the context of surgeries.

5. How does the author want the reader to feel after reading about Bridge?

A. As though the game of Bridge is too hard for novices to learn
B. Frustrated and confused about playing bridge
C. Confident and excited about learning Bridge
D. Overwhelmed by all the rules for the game of Bridge

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The author wants the reader to feel confident and excited about learning the game of Bridge. In the text, the author acknowledges that Bridge can be complicated for beginners but emphasizes that with time, effort, and a good teacher, even novices can become proficient. The tone of the writing is encouraging and informative, providing tips and explanations to help the reader understand the game better and increase their interest in playing Bridge. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the text does not convey that the game is too hard for novices, aims to frustrate or confuse the reader, or overwhelm them with rules. Instead, the author's intention is to inspire confidence and excitement in learning this exciting card game.