why was the roadway of the golden gate bridge so dangerous to build

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. Why was the roadway of the Golden Gate Bridge so dangerous to build?

A. It was located above a fast-moving river.
B. It had to be perfectly balanced to avoid collapse.
C. The materials used were very unstable.
D. It was built during bad weather.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage describes how the road had to be balanced during construction to avoid collapse into the bay. Choice A is incorrect as the Golden Gate Bridge crosses a strait, not a river. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of unstable materials. Choice D is incorrect as bad weather is not highlighted as a specific reason for the danger in building the roadway.

2. What does the word 'integral' mean as used in the first paragraph of the passage?

A. Central
B. Initial
C. Trifling
D. Irrelevant

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'integral' means 'central' or essential. The passage discusses the debate around spanking as a method of discipline. Some parents consider it an integral part of teaching right and wrong, highlighting its central importance. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Central.' Choice B, 'Initial,' is incorrect as the word 'integral' does not refer to something being at the beginning of a process or sequence. Choice C, 'Trifling,' is incorrect as 'integral' implies significance and importance, opposite to being trivial. Choice D, 'Irrelevant,' is incorrect as the passage clearly states that some parents view spanking as essential, making it relevant and not irrelevant.

3. 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.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

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

A. Scheduling
B. Contracting
C. Traveling
D. Charging

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'booking' refers to scheduling appointments for bone density tests. The correct choice is 'A: Scheduling' because in the given text, women are booking bone density tests to ensure their bone health. 'Contracting' (Choice B) is incorrect as it does not fit the context of making appointments. 'Traveling' (Choice C) and 'Charging' (Choice D) are also irrelevant to the context of scheduling appointments for medical tests.