what is the main idea of the passage about mrsa

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the passage about MRSA?

A. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, and there are ways to mitigate the risk.
B. A new textile made of nanomaterials could significantly reduce the spread of hospital-associated MRSA infections.
C. There are multiple strains of MRSA, and they pose various risks beyond just fatality.
D. MRSA is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, but there are ways to mitigate the risk.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that MRSA is a significant issue both within and outside of hospitals. It highlights the challenges posed by MRSA, including its resistance to antibiotics, high mortality rates, and widespread presence in various settings. While the development of new technologies like nanomaterial textiles shows promise in reducing hospital-associated MRSA, the passage also emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene to prevent community-associated MRSA infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not capture the comprehensive overview of MRSA provided in the passage. Choice A encompasses the main idea by emphasizing the significance of MRSA and ways to mitigate the risk. Choice B focuses on a specific solution rather than the broader issue of MRSA. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the risks associated with MRSA strains by only mentioning fatality.

2. What is the main idea of the passage about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Bone pain is a symptom of sickle-cell anemia.
B. Sickle-cell anemia affects oxygen transport in the body.
C. Sickle-cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease.
D. Sickle-cell anemia is a painful, inherited disease.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The passage focuses on describing sickle-cell anemia as a painful and inherited disease. It details how the abnormal sickle-shaped cells cause symptoms like bone pain, fever, and fatigue. While bone pain is mentioned as a symptom, it is not the main idea of the passage. Choice A is incorrect. Choice B, which mentions oxygen transport, is not the main idea but a general concept. Choice C, stating genetically inherited diseases affect thousands, is too broad and does not focus on the specifics of sickle-cell anemia. Therefore, D is the most precise choice.

3. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to Super Foods?

A. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids.
B. Lentils are high in both protein and fiber.
C. Pomegranates are delicious and healthful.
D. Oats move slowly through the digestive tract.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement about pomegranates being delicious and healthful reflects a subjective opinion about taste and health benefits. This contrasts with the other options, which present factual information about the nutritional content of walnuts, lentils, and oats, making C the correct choice for an opinion.

4. Which of the following statements is an opinion?

A. The connection between sleep and weight should be explored.
B. Many young children average only eight hours of sleep a night.
C. People who sleep less are more likely to be obese.
D. Researchers in New Zealand studied almost 600 children.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement that the connection between sleep and weight should be explored reflects a personal viewpoint rather than an objective fact. It indicates a belief that further research is warranted to understand this relationship better, making it an opinion and distinguishing it from the other factual statements presented in the passage.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'emitting' as it is used in the second paragraph?

A. Repelling
B. Releasing
C. Closing
D. Charging

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context provided, 'emitting' means releasing, specifically referring to the electric currents being released in the body. The passage describes how electric currents are constantly being emitted in the body and can be detected on the body's surface, ultimately recorded by an electrocardiograph. This process is about the release of electric impulses, making 'releasing' the correct interpretation. Choice A, 'Repelling,' implies pushing away, which is not the intended meaning in this context. Choice C, 'Closing,' and Choice D, 'Charging,' do not align with the context of electric currents being emitted.