what does the term elasticity mean as used in the passage about hypertension

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What does the term elasticity mean, as used in the passage about Hypertension?

A. Firmness.
B. Compactness.
C. Flexibility.
D. Rigidity.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elasticity, as used in the passage about Hypertension, refers to the stretchiness or flexibility of blood vessels. The text mentions that blood vessels lose elasticity and stiffen as a person ages, indicating that they become less flexible. This eliminates choices A and D (Firmness and Rigidity) as the correct answers. Choice B (Compactness) is unrelated to the concept of elasticity in the context of blood vessels and is therefore incorrect. Understanding elasticity as the ability to stretch or flex helps in choosing flexibility as the correct answer.

2. 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.

3. What conclusion can a reader draw from this passage?

A. It is advisable to choose unsaturated fats over saturated fats.
B. Saturated fats are more calorically dense than unsaturated fats.
C. Trans fats are more calorically dense than saturated fats.
D. Unsaturated fats are mostly found in animal products.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage is that it is advisable to choose unsaturated fats over saturated fats. The passage emphasizes the health benefits of unsaturated fats, such as lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. It also mentions that saturated fats, although not as healthy as unsaturated fats, should still be consumed sparingly. Trans fats are highlighted as the least healthy fats, increasing the risk of heart disease. Choice B is incorrect because the passage does not explicitly compare the caloric density of saturated and unsaturated fats. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the caloric density of trans fats in comparison to saturated fats. Choice D is incorrect as the passage states that unsaturated fats are found in sources like olive oil, walnut oil, and avocado oil, not mostly in animal products.

4. What is the main reason the author wrote the passage about the Electoral College?

A. To criticize the complexity of the Electoral College.
B. To explain how the Electoral College works.
C. To advocate for abolishing the Electoral College.
D. To promote the benefits of the Electoral College.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage primarily aims to explain how the Electoral College functions in U.S. elections. It provides details on how the Electoral College operates, including the allocation of electoral votes based on states' representation in Congress, the role of senators and representatives, and how electoral votes are cast during presidential elections. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the passage does not criticize, advocate for abolishing, or promote the benefits of the Electoral College. Instead, it focuses on clarifying its mechanism.

5. 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.