what does expand mean

HESI A2

Vocabulary HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What does 'expand' mean?

A. To decrease in size
B. To increase in size or amount
C. To spread out
D. To eliminate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. 'Expand' means to increase in size or amount. Choice A, 'To decrease in size,' is the opposite of what 'expand' means. Choice C, 'To spread out,' is related to expanding but does not precisely define the term. Choice D, 'To eliminate,' is not synonymous with the term 'expand.'

2. Hypothetical is best defined as being ___________.

A. rigorous
B. short-term
C. assumed
D. convinced

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Hypothetical is best defined as being assumed because it describes something that is based on a theory or assumption rather than solid proof or certainty. Hypothetical situations are used to explore different possibilities or outcomes without being confirmed as true or existing. Choice A, 'rigorous,' does not accurately define hypothetical, as it refers to something that is extremely thorough, accurate, or carefully done. Choice B, 'short-term,' is unrelated to the definition of hypothetical. Choice D, 'convinced,' does not capture the essence of hypothetical, which is more about assumptions and possibilities rather than being convinced of something.

3. If a patient's condition is deteriorating, he is ______.

A. Improving
B. Getting worse
C. Stabilizing
D. Reversing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Getting worse.' When a patient's condition is deteriorating, it means that their health is declining or worsening. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because improving, stabilizing, and reversing all indicate positive changes or holding steady, which are the opposite of deteriorating.

4. Choose the meaning of the word 'puerilism' in the following sentence: 'Older patients with dementia may show signs of puerilism.'

A. Congeniality
B. Depression
C. Irritability
D. Childishness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Correct! Puerilism refers to behaving in a childish or immature manner. In the context of older patients with dementia showing signs of puerilism, it suggests they may exhibit behaviors associated with acting like a child. Choice A, 'Congeniality,' is incorrect as it means friendliness or pleasantness. Choice B, 'Depression,' is incorrect as it refers to a state of low mood. Choice C, 'Irritability,' is incorrect as it means easily annoyed or provoked, which is different from behaving childishly.

5. A paroxysm is a sudden spasm. Another word for this might be ___________.

A. convulsion
B. symptom
C. efficacy
D. embolism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "convulsion." A paroxysm is defined as a sudden spasm or convulsion. The word "convulsion" specifically refers to a violent and involuntary contraction or spasm of muscles, which aligns perfectly with the description of a paroxysm. On the other hand, choices B, C, and D are incorrect. "Symptom" (B) refers to a manifestation of a condition rather than a physical spasm. "Efficacy" (C) relates to effectiveness or success, not a sudden spasm. "Embolism" (D) refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel, which is unrelated to the concept of a sudden spasm. Therefore, convulsion is the most suitable synonym for a paroxysm in this context.