what is the meaning of the word pulses as it appears in the first paragraph

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. What is the meaning of the word "pulses" as it appears in the first paragraph?

A. The regular throbbing of the arteries caused by successive contractions of the heart
B. The general attitude of the public or a specific population toward health concerns
C. The edible seeds produced by legumes such as peas, beans, or lentils
D. Any type of food with animal origins such as butter, honey, or eggs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "pulses" refers to the edible seeds produced by legumes.

2. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay?

A. To persuade the reader to have an ECG
B. To entertain the reader with a heartwarming story
C. To inform the reader how an electrocardiograph reads the electric currents emitted by the heart
D. To analyze the difference between the SA node and the AV node

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The author's primary purpose in writing the essay is to inform the reader about how an electrocardiograph reads the electric currents emitted by the heart. Choice A is incorrect because there is no attempt to persuade the reader to have an ECG. Choice B is incorrect because the essay is focused on providing information rather than entertaining with a heartwarming story. Choice D is incorrect as the essay does not primarily analyze the difference between the SA node and the AV node; instead, it focuses on explaining how an electrocardiograph reads electric currents from the heart.

3. What is the meaning of the word compelling as used in the passage about Sunny-Side Up?

A. Reasonable.
B. Convincing.
C. Common.
D. Worthwhile.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "compelling" refers to something that is convincing or persuasive. The passage presents a strong argument in favor of sunlight's benefits, particularly in relation to vitamin D synthesis. Therefore, B is the correct choice as it aligns with the author's intent to present a convincing argument.

4. In the passage, a trick is described as?

A. A special look given to your partner across the table
B. A book that gives strategies on how to win at Bridge
C. A specific card the dealer gives to the person to her right
D. A round in which each player plays a card, and the highest card wins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the passage, a trick is described as a specific card played by each player, forming a collection of four cards. This is a fundamental concept in the game of Bridge, where players take turns playing cards to create a trick. The trick is won by the player with the highest card of the lead suit or the trump suit if applicable. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the definition of a trick as provided in the passage.

5. What is the meaning of the word delicate as used in the first paragraph?

A. Subtle
B. Fragile
C. Refined
D. Intricate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context of microsurgery, the word 'delicate' refers to the intricate, precise, and fine nature of surgeries performed using microscopy. These surgeries require intricate attention to detail and precision due to the small and delicate structures involved, making 'intricate' the most appropriate synonym. 'Subtle' implies understated or not obvious, 'fragile' suggests easily broken or damaged, and 'refined' refers to something developed or improved over time, none of which fully capture the detailed and precise nature of microsurgery. Therefore, 'intricate' is the correct answer.