what is the meaning of the word diligent as used in the last paragraph about sickle cell anemia

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the meaning of the word diligent as used in the last paragraph about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Dispersed.
B. Incensed.
C. Painstaking.
D. Demanding.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of sickle-cell anemia, diligent means painstaking, indicating the careful and thorough approach required to manage the disease. The passage highlights the challenges of managing the symptoms of sickle-cell anemia and the need for meticulous and conscientious care. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Dispersed' and 'Incensed' do not align with the meaning of diligent in this context. 'Demanding' does not capture the essence of the careful and thorough care needed to manage the disease.

2. What is the author's reason for writing the passage on the White Elephant?

A. To inform readers about Thailand's historical customs.
B. To entertain readers with the origins of the term 'white elephant.'
C. To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.
D. To criticize the tradition of giving white elephants as gifts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.' The passage provides historical context about the practice of giving white elephants as gifts in ancient Siam, now Thailand. It explains how white elephants were considered sacred, could not be put to work, and became a burden to the recipients. The author's purpose is to shed light on this tradition and its implications, not to inform readers about Thailand in general (choice A), entertain with fun facts (choice B), or criticize the tradition (choice D). Choices A and B are incorrect because the passage focuses specifically on the tradition of giving white elephants, not on broader aspects of Thailand or entertainment. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not criticize the tradition but rather provides a factual account of its historical significance.

3. What is the meaning of the word instill as used in the second paragraph of the passage?

A. Impart
B. Propagandize
C. Demand
D. Create

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Impart.' In the context of the passage, 'instill' means to impart important lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and keeping weight under control. This word choice is appropriate as it aligns with the idea of teaching and passing on knowledge. Choice B, 'Propagandize,' is incorrect as it implies spreading biased or misleading information, which is not the intended meaning in this context. Choice C, 'Demand,' is incorrect as it does not capture the concept of teaching or passing on lessons. Choice D, 'Create,' is also incorrect as it does not convey the idea of imparting knowledge or lessons, which is the central meaning of 'instill' in this context.

4. 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.

5. The passage lists all of these benefits of omega-3s EXCEPT ___________.

A. Reduced blood pressure
B. Less risk of diabetes
C. Improved memory
D. Alleviated depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The passage mentions reduced blood pressure, improved memory, and alleviated depression as potential benefits of omega-3s but does not mention a reduced risk of diabetes.