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. Which of the following is a conclusion that a reader can draw from this passage?
- A. Humans are not the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi.
- B. The life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, which is not excluded.
- C. Unless a tick feeds on an infected mouse or squirrel, it will not spread Lyme disease.
- D. The combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is not a definite indication of Lyme disease.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage clearly states that for Lyme disease to spread, a tick must feed on an infected host, such as a mouse or squirrel. This conclusion can be drawn from the information provided in the extract. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not specify that humans are the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi. Choice B is incorrect as the passage mentions that the life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, without excluding it. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not state that the combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is a definitive sign of Lyme disease.
3. The information presented is
- A. Balanced in its view of public speaking.
- B. Favoring people with low-pitched voices.
- C. Slanted against people with piercing voices.
- D. Neutral toward both high- and low-pitched voices.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The paragraph is biased against people with piercing or harsh voices, suggesting they are less desirable as public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates. The text explicitly mentions that harsh voice qualities, like being shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, loud, or nasal, are undesirable and may make people uncomfortable when speaking. It also highlights that tension leading to harsh voice qualities is more common in higher-pitched voices, which are typically associated with women, making them less preferred for public speaking roles. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the text does not suggest a balanced view, favor low-pitched voices, or maintain neutrality towards both high- and low-pitched voices; instead, it emphasizes the negative impact of harsh and piercing voices.
4. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?
- A. It is a good gift to give at the party
- B. Gifts are never unwanted
- C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
- D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.
5. Which of the following is not mentioned as being important for seniors?
- A. Vitamin B12
- B. Calcium
- C. Nitrates
- D. Exercise
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The passage lists important nutrients for seniors, including fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and B12, while exercise is also discussed as crucial for health. However, nitrates are not mentioned at all, making option C correct since it stands out as the only nutrient not discussed in the context of seniors’ health
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