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 role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?

A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.

3. In the context of the passage, 'accommodate' means to

A. Arrange lodging for
B. Contain
C. Make allowances for
D. Excuse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this context, 'accommodate' means to make allowances for different focal points of vision. The passage explains that the function of the lens is to adjust for different focal points so that sensory data can be correctly directed to the retina for interpretation into images by the brain. This aligns with the meaning of 'make allowances for' as it indicates adapting to or accommodating different needs or requirements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because in the context of the passage, 'accommodate' specifically refers to adjusting for different focal points of vision rather than arranging lodging, containing, or excusing.

4. What is the purpose of white elephants in the tradition mentioned in the passage?

A. White elephants are symbols of wealth and power.
B. White elephants represent unwanted and burdensome gifts.
C. White elephants are used in religious ceremonies.
D. White elephants are mythological creatures with no real use.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the tradition mentioned in the passage, white elephants were given as punishment gifts by rulers to those who displeased them. These white elephants were considered burdensome because they were sacred and could not be made to work like other elephants. The recipients had to bear the high maintenance costs and care for the white elephants in a lavish style, leading to financial burdens and sometimes impoverishment. This tradition originated the term 'white elephant' to denote unwanted gifts. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect because white elephants were not symbols of wealth and power in this context; they were burdensome gifts. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of white elephants being used in religious ceremonies in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as white elephants in the tradition were real elephants, not mythological creatures with no practical use.

5. Which of the following would be the best title for this passage?

A. Bicycles are better.
B. A ride through the history of bicycles.
C. Cycle your way to fitness.
D. The popularity of bicycles.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best title for this passage would be 'A ride through the history of bicycles' as it provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of bicycles from their invention to modern times. Choice A, 'Bicycles are better,' is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of the passage, which focuses on the history and evolution of bicycles rather than their superiority. Choice C, 'Cycle your way to fitness,' is misleading as the passage does not primarily discuss the fitness aspect of cycling but instead focuses on the evolution of bicycle design. Choice D, 'The popularity of bicycles,' is too narrow as it only touches on one aspect mentioned briefly in the passage, while the passage covers a broader historical perspective.