a reader might infer from this passage that

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. A reader might infer from this passage that ___________.

A. Obesity can be detrimental to a long life
B. Car crashes are most frequent in the United States
C. The Second Amendment should be overturned
D. People in Asia and Africa have the shortest life spans

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage indicates that obesity, along with other health-related issues, contributes to lower life expectancy. This implies that obesity can negatively affect one's lifespan, making option A the correct inference based on the information presented in the text. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of the passage.

2. What is the overall tone of the essay?

A. Informative
B. Insensitive
C. Grim
D. Uplifting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage discusses the challenges and symptoms associated with sickle-cell anemia, portraying a somber and serious tone. The descriptions of persistent pain, difficulties, and the impact on individuals' lives make the overall tone fairly grim. The essay focuses on the hardships faced by individuals with sickle-cell anemia, highlighting the severity of the disease. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the tone of the essay is not informal, insensitive, or uplifting. It is important to consider the language used, the subject matter, and the overall emotional impact of the text to determine the tone accurately.

3. Which statement is not listed as a detail within the passage?

A. Changes in the ECG are typically used for the diagnosis of abnormal cardiac rhythm.
B. The signal has a characteristic record called the electrocardiogram.
C. The 'wave of excitation' starts at the SA node.
D. The 'wave of excitation' spreads through the heart wall and is accompanied by electric changes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected statement should be: Changes in the ECG are not typically used for the diagnosis of abnormal cardiac rhythm. The passage mentions that the heart sends out electric currents in waves, and the 'wave of excitation' spreads through the heart wall accompanied by electric changes. It details the process of how the heart's electric impulses are recorded and how abnormalities can be detected. However, it does not state that ECG changes are specifically used for diagnosing abnormal cardiac rhythms. Choice A is the correct answer because it misrepresents the information provided in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are all supported by the passage and align with the details mentioned regarding the electrocardiogram and the wave of excitation in the heart.

4. What is the best summary of this passage?

A. The heart regulates oxygen flow and waste disposal, with the kidneys aiding in salt and water absorption.
B. The cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure through baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys.
C. Baroreceptors send impulses to regulate blood pressure by affecting the heart, arteries, and veins.
D. Chemoreceptors monitor oxygen levels to impact blood pressure.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides a comprehensive summary of the passage, explaining how the cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure through baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys. Choice A is incorrect as it only focuses on the heart and kidneys without mentioning the broader cardiovascular system. Choice C is incorrect as it solely emphasizes the role of baroreceptors in regulating blood pressure. Choice D is incorrect as it oversimplifies the role of chemoreceptors in monitoring oxygen levels without mentioning their impact on blood pressure regulation.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'abstain' as used in the last paragraph?

A. Dishonor
B. Go without
C. Connect to
D. Liberate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'abstain' means to refrain from or go without. The passage discusses the challenges of treating individuals with both eating disorders and substance abuse issues. It mentions that while treatment for addiction involves abstinence, it is not possible to completely abstain from food. This highlights the meaning of 'abstain' as 'go without' in this context. The other choices are incorrect: 'Dishonor' does not relate to abstain, 'Connect to' is not synonymous with abstain, and 'Liberate' does not align with the context of the passage.