what is the main idea of the passage about toxins and your health

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

2. 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.

3. Which statement is not listed as a detail within the passage?

A. Changes in the ECG are typically used for the diagnosis of abnormal cardiac rhythm.
B. The signal has a characteristic record called the electrocardiogram.
C. The 'wave of excitation' starts at the SA node.
D. The 'wave of excitation' spreads through the heart wall and is accompanied by electric changes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected statement should be: Changes in the ECG are not typically used for the diagnosis of abnormal cardiac rhythm. The passage mentions that the heart sends out electric currents in waves, and the 'wave of excitation' spreads through the heart wall accompanied by electric changes. It details the process of how the heart's electric impulses are recorded and how abnormalities can be detected. However, it does not state that ECG changes are specifically used for diagnosing abnormal cardiac rhythms. Choice A is the correct answer because it misrepresents the information provided in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are all supported by the passage and align with the details mentioned regarding the electrocardiogram and the wave of excitation in the heart.

4. What conclusion can be drawn from the article on Eating?

A. The author thinks chopsticks are funny.
B. Space flight is fun and exciting.
C. The author enjoys trying new food.
D. Diversity is interesting to learn about.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The author highlights cultural diversity and the variety of eating habits in the article. The passage discusses the different eating methods developed by various cultures, such as cutlery in European cultures and chopsticks in China. It emphasizes the interest in discovering these cultural differences and learning new ways of doing things, showcasing the importance of diversity. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the main focus of the article, which is cultural diversity and eating habits, rather than the author's opinion on chopsticks, space flight, or personal food preferences.