why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

2. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about MRSA?

A. Hospitals may soon limit the spread of infection with a new textile.
B. MRSA begins by infecting the skin.
C. You are most likely to contract MRSA in a crowded location.
D. Used clothing stores may harbor MRSA.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Used clothing stores may harbor MRSA.' This statement is not supported by the passage. The passage mentions the spread of MRSA in hospitals, gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, and other settings with frequent human contact, but it does not mention used clothing stores as a common location for MRSA. Therefore, it is an unlikely inference. Choice A is supported by the passage as it discusses the development of a new textile to halt the spread of hospital-associated MRSA. Choice B is also supported as the passage mentions MRSA as a skin infection. Choice C is supported by the passage as it states that MRSA has become ubiquitous in settings with frequent human contact.

3. Choose the best summary of the passage about microbes.

A. Scientists have discovered the importance of certain bacteria for a well-functioning immune system, especially in defending against pathogens. The colonization of microbes in the body begins at birth, with the immune system relying on these bacteria for proper function.
B. The passage discusses the role of bacteria in the development of the human immune system. It highlights that the body supports various microorganisms crucial for immunity, starting from birth. The presence of harmless bacteria is essential for the immune system to work effectively.
C. The body hosts a vast number of microorganisms critical for immune system development. Harmless bacteria are necessary for the immune system to defend against pathogens effectively. Early research shows promising results in fecal bacteriotherapy for restoring the immune system's ability to fight off harmful invaders.
D. Microbes play a pivotal role in human health, particularly in immune system development. The introduction of healthy bacteria is essential for the immune system to function correctly. Fecal bacteriotherapy is a novel approach to reintroducing beneficial bacteria into a compromised colon to enhance immune response.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage emphasizes the importance of certain bacteria for a properly functioning immune system. It discusses how harmless bacteria play a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on the immune system's response to certain types of bacteria in lower organisms, not the overall importance of bacteria for immunity. Choice B is incorrect as it mainly discusses bacteriotherapy in relation to the reconstruction of a damaged colon, rather than the broader role of bacteria in immune system health. Choice D is incorrect as it only talks about the process of replacing harmful bacteria with harmless ones, missing the key point about the necessity of certain bacteria for immune system function.

4. What is stated in the passage?

A. Physical illness can cause insomnia.
B. Exercise causes insomnia.
C. There is no solution to insomnia.
D. Sleep is unnecessary for good health.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Physical illness can cause insomnia.' The passage mentions that chronic insomnia can result from a medical illness, among other conditions. This indicates a direct link between physical illness and insomnia. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not mention exercise causing insomnia but actually suggests developing good sleep habits as a solution. Choice C is incorrect as the passage provides solutions to insomnia, such as sleep hygiene and non-pharmacological therapies. Choice D is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the importance of getting a good night's sleep for good health, implying that sleep is necessary.

5. What is the relationship between the tilt of the Earth and seasons as explained in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. The tilt of the Earth has no effect on seasons.
B. The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.
C. The tilt of the Earth changes throughout the year.
D. The tilt of the Earth is random and unpredictable.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.' The passage explains that the tilt of the Earth causes the different seasons by changing the amount of sunlight different regions receive. This tilt results in varying angles at which sunlight reaches different parts of the Earth, leading to the seasonal changes in temperature and daylight hours. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the tilt of the Earth does have an effect on the seasons. Choice C is incorrect because the tilt of the Earth remains relatively constant throughout the year. Choice D is incorrect as the tilt of the Earth is not random but follows a consistent pattern.