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 does the author of the passage on the Electoral College seem to suggest?

A. The Electoral College should be abolished.
B. The Electoral College works as intended.
C. The Electoral College needs reform.
D. The Electoral College confuses voters.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The author of the passage suggests that the Electoral College works as intended. Despite acknowledging its confusing nature and the possibility of results differing from the popular vote, the author highlights that the founding fathers had a purpose behind its design. Therefore, the Electoral College is viewed as functioning as intended. Choice A is incorrect because the author does not advocate for abolishing the Electoral College. Choice C is incorrect as there is no explicit mention of the need for reform. Choice D is incorrect as the author does not focus on the confusion caused to voters but rather on the system's original purpose.

3. What is the meaning of the word leached as used in the last paragraph?

A. Sucked
B. Compressed
C. Seeped
D. Materialized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Leached" refers to the process by which substances, such as lead, seep or dissolve out of materials, in this case, water pipes.

4. Which conclusion can the reader draw after reading this passage?

A. The climate crisis has increased deaths from heatstroke.
B. Heat exhaustion rarely occurs in dry environments.
C. The cessation of sweat is not necessarily a positive sign.
D. Temperatures below 90 degrees are usually not dangerous.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage notes that stopping sweating entirely is a serious sign that requires medical attention.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'deceptive' as it is used in the fifth paragraph?

A. misleading
B. malicious
C. illegal
D. irritating

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'deceptive' means misleading. The passage discusses how the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates product advertising to ensure that all information is truthful and not misleading. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: misleading.' Choice B, 'malicious,' is incorrect as it implies harmful intent, which is not necessarily conveyed by the term 'deceptive' in this context. Choice C, 'illegal,' is incorrect because 'deceptive' does not solely refer to something being against the law, but rather to misleading information. Choice D, 'irritating,' is also incorrect as it does not capture the essence of 'deceptive' as used in the passage.