insomnia affects intellectual abilities because it

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. How does insomnia affect intellectual abilities?

A. Causes a deficit in memory, concentration, and attention.
B. Improves mental alertness.
C. Boosts concentration levels.
D. Has no effect on intellectual abilities.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Insomnia affects intellectual abilities by causing a deficit in memory, concentration, and attention. The passage highlights that lack of sleep impacts memory, attention, and concentration, leading to feelings of irritation or depression. Therefore, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the negative impact insomnia has on intellectual abilities as described in the passage.

2. Which might be a good title for the passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot.
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries.
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running.
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

3. Why did the author write the passage on Getting a Good Night's Sleep?

A. To explain insomnia and propose solutions for it.
B. To entertain readers with sleep trivia.
C. To persuade people to sleep more.
D. To inform about the benefits of herbs for sleep.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The author wrote the passage to address the issue of insomnia, offering solutions such as sleep hygiene and non-pharmacological therapies. The passage discusses the challenges of insomnia, its impact on daily life, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help to achieve a good night's sleep. Choice B is incorrect as the passage focuses on a serious topic rather than entertaining with trivia. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not aim to persuade people to sleep more but to address insomnia specifically. Choice D is incorrect as the passage mentions herbs and spices as part of non-pharmacological therapies for insomnia, not primarily focusing on their benefits.

4. What was the author's primary purpose for writing this essay?

A. To inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle
B. To explain how rain is formed
C. To persuade readers to preserve water
D. To inform the reader about water's importance in life

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.

5. The author suggests that persistent passivity and imperturbability may be a direct result of which of the following?

A. Drug-induced stimulation of the amygdala.
B. A stroke that resulted in severe tissue damage in the limbic system.
C. Encephalitis as a result of head trauma.
D. Activation of a strategically implanted electrode in a patient’s amygdala.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage highlights that damage to the limbic system, specifically the amygdala, can lead to passivity and lack of aggression. This is supported by the statement that patients with trauma or damage to the amygdala exhibit a complete absence of aggression. Thus, a stroke causing severe tissue damage in the limbic system, including the amygdala, can result in persistent passivity and imperturbability. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to damage in the limbic system, which is specifically mentioned in the passage as the cause of the described behaviors.