what does it mean if a patient is lethargic

HESI A2

Vocabulary for HESI A2

1. What does it mean if a patient is lethargic?

A. Active
B. Exhausted
C. Confused
D. Restless

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lethargic means feeling exhausted or sluggish. Being lethargic is the opposite of being active (choice A), confused (choice C), or restless (choice D). When a patient is lethargic, they lack energy and may appear tired or sluggish.

2. Select the meaning of the word 'initial' in the sentence: 'The doctor made an initial examination of the patient.'

A. Complete
B. First
C. Incomplete
D. Discharge

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, 'initial' means 'first,' referring to the first examination conducted by the doctor. The initial examination is the first assessment or evaluation performed on the patient. Therefore, 'first' is the correct meaning in this sentence. 'Complete' (choice A) is incorrect as initial does not imply completeness, 'incomplete' (choice C) is incorrect as initial does not mean unfinished, and 'discharge' (choice D) is unrelated to the concept of an initial examination.

3. Precipitous is best defined as being ___________.

A. damp
B. gentle
C. swift
D. dull

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Precipitous is best defined as being swift, meaning sudden, rapid, or happening quickly. It is often used to describe a steep and very steep drop or rise. The word does not refer to being damp, gentle, or dull. 'Damp' means slightly wet, 'gentle' means mild or moderate, and 'dull' means lacking interest or excitement.

4. What is another word for unruffled?

A. Concerned
B. Wholesome
C. Tedious
D. Composed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Unruffled means calm and not agitated. The word 'composed' also means calm and collected, making it the correct synonym in this context. 'Concerned' (choice A) means worried or anxious, 'wholesome' (choice B) means promoting health and well-being, and 'tedious' (choice C) means boring or monotonous, making them all incorrect choices.

5. What does the quoted word 'fundamental' mean in the following sentence?

A. Appropriate
B. Underlying
C. Dosage
D. Basic

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Basic.' In this context, 'fundamental' means basic or essential, referring to the core or foundational dissimilarity between the two medications. Choice A, 'Appropriate,' is incorrect as it does not reflect the meaning of 'fundamental' in this sentence. Choice B, 'Underlying,' is incorrect because although it is related, it does not capture the primary or essential nature of the difference being discussed. Choice C, 'Dosage,' is unrelated to the meaning of 'fundamental' and does not align with the context of the sentence.