what does the word bilateral mean

HESI A2

Vocabulary for HESI A2

1. What does the word BILATERAL mean?

A. 2-sided
B. Straight
C. Symmetrical
D. On one side

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word 'bilateral' means having or relating to two sides. It is often used to describe something that occurs on both sides, such as bilateral symmetry in which an object is symmetrical on two sides. Choice B, 'Straight,' does not capture the meaning of bilateral. Choice C, 'Symmetrical,' while related, does not specifically convey the idea of something pertaining to two sides. Choice D, 'On one side,' is the opposite of what bilateral means.

2. What is a device?

A. An idea or concept
B. A tool or piece of equipment
C. A small part of a larger structure
D. An accessory for fashion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A device is defined as a tool or piece of equipment designed to serve a specific purpose. It is used to perform a particular function or task. An idea or concept (Choice A) may lead to the creation of a device, but they are not devices themselves. Choice C, referring to a small part of a larger structure, does not encompass the general definition of a device which implies standalone functionality. Choice D, an accessory for fashion, is entirely unrelated to the usual understanding of a device, which focuses on functionality rather than aesthetics.

3. Choose the meaning of the word 'mercurial' in the following sentence: 'Due to his mercurial temperament, Justin did not work well with others.'

A. Continuous
B. Unpredictable
C. Mercenary
D. Miraculous

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word 'mercurial' in this sentence means unpredictable or prone to sudden changes in mood or behavior. Justin's temperament can be characterized as unpredictable, which is causing him to not work well with others. Choice A, 'Continuous,' does not align with the meaning of 'mercurial' as it implies a steady, uninterrupted flow. Choice C, 'Mercenary,' refers to being primarily motivated by money or reward, which is not the context here. Choice D, 'Miraculous,' means extraordinary or remarkable, which is not the intended meaning in this sentence.

4. The meteorologist had forecast rain, ____________ Sheila brought her umbrella to work.

A. Nor
B. Yet
C. Because
D. So

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The sentence implies a cause-and-effect relationship, so 'because' is the appropriate conjunction. 'Nor' is used in negative constructions, 'Yet' indicates contrast, and 'So' is used to show a consequence, none of which fit the context of the sentence.

5. The nurse noted in the chart, 'The patient is lethargic.' How was the patient behaving?

A. Pacing the halls
B. Difficult to arouse
C. Shaking uncontrollably
D. Not responding to pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Difficult to arouse.' 'Lethargic' is a medical term used to describe a state of drowsiness or lack of energy, making the patient difficult to arouse. Choices A, C, and D describe different behaviors that are not indicative of lethargy. A patient who is pacing the halls is more likely to be agitated, while shaking uncontrollably may suggest tremors or seizures. Not responding to pain indicates a lack of reaction to painful stimuli but does not directly reflect being lethargic.