Nursing Elites

1. The word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

• A. Sluggishness
• B. Irritability
• C. Energy
• D. Starvation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'lethargy' refers to a state of sluggishness or lack of energy. The passage mentions that people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) struggle with lethargy and chronic fatigue, impairing their daily lives. Therefore, the correct definition of 'lethargy' in this context is 'sluggishness.' Choice B, 'Irritability,' is incorrect as lethargy refers more to a lack of energy than to being irritable. Choice C, 'Energy,' is the opposite of lethargy. Choice D, 'Starvation,' is unrelated to the definition of lethargy in this context.

2. Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?

• A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness
• B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw
• C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal
• D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.

3. 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.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

• A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
• B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
• C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
• D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

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.

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