which word means to think about something before making a decision

HESI A2

Vocabulary HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which word means TO THINK ABOUT SOMETHING BEFORE MAKING A DECISION?

A. Imply
B. Transgress
C. Allay
D. Ruminate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'ruminate' means to think deeply about something before making a decision. It specifically implies reflecting or pondering carefully on a matter, indicating a thoughtful consideration process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Imply' means to suggest indirectly, 'transgress' means to go beyond limits or boundaries, and 'allay' means to diminish or put to rest feelings of fear or suspicion. These words do not convey the concept of thoughtful contemplation before making a decision.

2. Select the meaning of the quoted word in the sentence. The doctor instructed the patient to keep his head 'elevated'.

A. Raised
B. Turned
C. Still
D. Thrown back

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'Raised.' In this context, 'elevated' means to be lifted or raised up. The doctor's instruction implies keeping the patient's head in an upward position. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. 'Turned' suggests a change in direction, 'still' means without movement, and 'thrown back' implies a forceful backward motion, none of which capture the meaning of 'elevated' in this scenario.

3. What is the definition of adverse?

A. Desirable
B. Undesired, possibly harmful
C. Beneficial
D. Neutral

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The term 'adverse' is used to describe something that is unfavorable, unwanted, or potentially harmful. This makes choice B, 'Undesired, possibly harmful,' the correct definition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they describe positive (desirable, beneficial) or neutral characteristics, which are the opposite of what 'adverse' means.

4. What are the soft spots on the head of a newborn called?

A. Fistula
B. Fontanel
C. Follicle
D. Fissure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fontanel. Fontanels are spaces between the bones of a newborn's skull that allow for brain growth and development. The term 'fistula' (choice A) refers to an abnormal passageway between two organs or between an organ and the body surface, not related to newborn soft spots. 'Follicle' (choice C) is a structure in the skin that contains the hair root, not related to the skull. 'Fissure' (choice D) refers to a narrow opening or crack, which is not the term used for the soft spots on a newborn's head.

5. Another word for CONTEMPLATING is?

A. Impasse
B. Impartial
C. Pondering
D. Emending

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Pondering" is another word for contemplating because it means to think about something carefully or thoroughly. Both terms imply deep reflection or consideration of a subject or idea. Therefore, "pondering" best captures the meaning of contemplating among the given choices.