which statement could be inferred by the reader from the last paragraph of the passage

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which statement could be inferred by the reader from the last paragraph of the passage?

A. Procedures that Lifewings Partners recommends are always effective.
B. Medical mistakes can happen at even the best hospitals.
C. City hospitals know more than others about cutting-edge medicine.
D. Medical mistakes will one day be completely eradicated.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The inference that medical mistakes can happen even at reputable hospitals is suggested by the warning from Steve Harden about the risks involved. The passage acknowledges that even well-regarded facilities are not immune to errors, thereby supporting option B as a logical conclusion drawn from the text.

2. What is the meaning of the word 'abstain' as used in the last paragraph?

A. Dishonor
B. Go without
C. Connect to
D. Liberate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'abstain' means to refrain from or go without. The passage discusses the challenges of treating individuals with both eating disorders and substance abuse issues. It mentions that while treatment for addiction involves abstinence, it is not possible to completely abstain from food. This highlights the meaning of 'abstain' as 'go without' in this context. The other choices are incorrect: 'Dishonor' does not relate to abstain, 'Connect to' is not synonymous with abstain, and 'Liberate' does not align with the context of the passage.

3. What is the subject of the passage?

A. foodborne illnesses
B. the dangers of uncooked food
C. bacteria
D. proper food preparation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'foodborne illnesses.' The passage discusses how foodborne illnesses are contracted by consuming contaminated food or beverages, the symptoms they can cause, common sources of contamination like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals, and preventive measures. While the passage mentions dangers associated with uncooked food, bacteria, and proper food preparation, the primary focus is on foodborne illnesses caused by various contaminants. Choice B, 'the dangers of uncooked food,' is incorrect as it is a narrower focus compared to the broader topic of foodborne illnesses. Choice C, 'bacteria,' is incorrect as it is one of the contaminants discussed in relation to foodborne illnesses but not the central subject of the passage. Choice D, 'proper food preparation,' is incorrect as it is mentioned in the passage but not as the main subject; rather, it is discussed as a preventive measure to avoid foodborne illnesses.

4. Which of the following statements is an opinion?

A. The connection between sleep and weight should be explored.
B. Many young children average only eight hours of sleep a night.
C. People who sleep less are more likely to be obese.
D. Researchers in New Zealand studied almost 600 children.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement that the connection between sleep and weight should be explored reflects a personal viewpoint rather than an objective fact. It indicates a belief that further research is warranted to understand this relationship better, making it an opinion and distinguishing it from the other factual statements presented in the passage.

5. A reader might infer from this passage that ___________.

A. Obesity can be detrimental to a long life
B. Car crashes are most frequent in the United States
C. The Second Amendment should be overturned
D. People in Asia and Africa have the shortest life spans

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage indicates that obesity, along with other health-related issues, contributes to lower life expectancy. This implies that obesity can negatively affect one's lifespan, making option A the correct inference based on the information presented in the text. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of the passage.