what is the meaning of the word onset as used in the first paragraph

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the meaning of the word onset as used in the first paragraph?

A. Cure rate
B. Incubation period
C. Remainder
D. Commencement

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, "onset" refers to the beginning or commencement of dementia symptoms. The term is used to indicate when the disease first becomes noticeable in patients, making option D the correct choice.

2. The word 'massive' in line 4 is closest in meaning to?

A. Dense
B. Impressive
C. Huge
D. Unavoidable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'massive' is used to describe the size of the collision that formed the Moon, indicating something very large or huge. While 'dense' means closely compacted, 'impressive' means evoking admiration, 'huge' is the closest synonym to 'massive' in this context. 'Unavoidable' does not convey the same meaning as 'massive' in this sentence, making it incorrect.

3. 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.

4. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage?

A. Many patients die each year from medical error.
B. Lifewings Partners educates patients on consumer safety.
C. Steve Harden is the founder of Lifewings Partners.
D. The most common medical error is overmedication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage discusses the dangers of medical errors and provides specific examples of such errors but does not indicate that overmedication is the most common error. Therefore, since option D is not supported by the text, it is the correct choice for what is not mentioned.

5. Which part of the bridge was built first?

A. Cables
B. Roadway
C. Sidewalks
D. Towers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Roadway. In the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, as with many bridges, the roadway was built first. The roadway provides the foundation and support for the rest of the structure, allowing vehicles and pedestrians to access the bridge. The construction process typically starts with the roadway to establish a base before moving on to other components like cables, towers, and sidewalks. Therefore, the roadway is an essential initial component in bridge construction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because, according to the provided extract, the anchorages were built first, followed by the towers, cables, and finally, the completion of the roadway. This sequence highlights the significance of establishing the structural support before the construction of other elements of the bridge.