HESI A2
HESI A2 Vocabulary 2023
1. Select the meaning of the word 'reflex' in the sentence: 'The typical patellar reflex takes only 50 milliseconds between the initial tap and the leg extension.'
- A. Replication
- B. Convulsion
- C. Reaction
- D. Stretching
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the context of the sentence, the word 'reflex' indicates a quick, automatic response by the body to a stimulus. The patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex, involves the leg extending in response to a tap on the patellar tendon. Therefore, the word 'reaction' aligns closely with the nature of the patellar reflex in terms of a rapid and involuntary response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: 'Replication' does not capture the concept of a bodily response, 'convulsion' implies a sudden and uncontrollable movement which is not specific to the nature of the patellar reflex, and 'stretching' does not encompass the automatic and rapid nature of a reflex action.
2. If you are at the zenith of your career, you are ___________.
- A. just getting started
- B. preparing for retirement
- C. at the pinnacle of success
- D. having trouble with your superiors
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When someone is at the zenith of their career, it means they have reached the highest point or peak of success in their professional life. This suggests that they have achieved their utmost potential and are enjoying the height of their career accomplishments. Choice A, 'just getting started,' is incorrect as it implies the beginning of a career rather than the peak. Choice B, 'preparing for retirement,' is incorrect because being at the zenith of one's career usually signifies the prime of one's professional success, not the preparation for retirement. Choice D, 'having trouble with your superiors,' is incorrect as it is unrelated to the concept of reaching the peak of success in one's career.
3. What is the best description of the phrase 'suggests that' in this sentence? A study suggests that vaping may reduce cigarette smoking but also lead to higher relapse.
- A. Makes a suggestion about
- B. Gives evidence about
- C. Hints at the idea that
- D. Promotes a plan to
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Makes a suggestion about.' The phrase 'suggests that' indicates that the study is proposing or indicating the possibility that vaping may have certain effects on cigarette smoking. It is not stating a fact or providing evidence, but rather making a suggestion or recommendation about the relationship between vaping and cigarette smoking. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the phrase 'suggests that' does not provide evidence, hint at an idea, or promote a plan, but rather presents a suggestion or possibility.
4. What is the meaning of venal?
- A. Vibrant
- B. Savage
- C. Greedy
- D. Fortunate
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The word 'venal' means susceptible to corruption, especially by bribery. It is often used to describe individuals who are willing to do dishonest or immoral acts in exchange for money or favors. Therefore, the most appropriate synonym for 'venal' among the given choices is 'greedy.' 'Vibrant' means full of energy and life, 'savage' refers to fierce or violent behavior, and 'fortunate' means having good luck or being favored by fortune, none of which capture the meaning of 'venal.'
5. A remedy may cure certain ailments. Another word for this might be ___________.
- A. inoculation
- B. indicator
- C. nostrum
- D. serum
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A "nostrum" is a term used to describe a questionable or untested remedy or medication that claims to cure ailments. In this context, as a remedy is suggested to cure certain ailments, "nostrum" fits best in providing an alternative word that aligns with the situation. The other choices are not synonyms for a remedy that cures ailments. 'Inoculation' refers to the introduction of a vaccine, 'indicator' is something that provides information or signals, and 'serum' is a component of blood or a medication, none of which directly align with the concept of a remedy curing ailments.
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