what does parameter mean

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Vocabulary

1. What does 'Parameter' mean?

A. A constant variable
B. A characteristic or constant factor
C. A measurable limit
D. A calculated risk

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A characteristic or constant factor.' In the context of systems or experiments, a parameter is a fixed element that influences the behavior or outcome. It is not a variable like in choice A, which can change. Choice C, 'A measurable limit,' is incorrect as a parameter is not necessarily a physical limit but a defining factor. Choice D, 'A calculated risk,' is unrelated to the definition of a parameter.

2. Select the meaning of the quoted word in the sentence. That is an 'ominous' sign.

A. A good omen
B. Without deceit
C. Threatening
D. Full of thought

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct meaning of 'ominous' is 'threatening' or indicating something bad is about to happen. A is incorrect because 'ominous' does not signify a good omen. B is incorrect as 'ominous' does not relate to deceit. D is incorrect as 'ominous' does not mean 'full of thought.' Therefore, the most suitable interpretation of 'ominous' in the given sentence is 'Threatening.'

3. The student observed the tricky procedure with a certain amount of trepidation. What does trepidation mean?

A. Confidence
B. Misgivings
C. Fear
D. Doubt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Misgivings. Trepidation means a feeling of fear or apprehension. In this context, the student observed the procedure with a certain amount of trepidation, indicating that they were feeling uneasy or fearful. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Confidence (choice A) is the opposite of trepidation, as it denotes a feeling of self-assurance. Fear (choice C) is the closest synonym to trepidation, making it an attractive distractor, but it is not the correct answer. Doubt (choice D) is different from trepidation, as doubt refers to a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction, not necessarily fear or apprehension.

4. What does 'insidious' mean?

A. Immediate and obvious
B. So gradual as to not become apparent for a long time
C. Sudden and severe
D. Quick and detectable

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct definition of 'insidious' is 'So gradual as to not become apparent for a long time.' This term describes something that develops slowly and may not be noticed initially. Choice A, 'Immediate and obvious,' is incorrect because 'insidious' implies the opposite of being immediate. Choice C, 'Sudden and severe,' is incorrect because 'insidious' suggests a slow and subtle progression, not sudden. Choice D, 'Quick and detectable,' is incorrect because 'insidious' does not indicate something quick or easily detectable.

5. A vertiginous patient is ___________.

A. on a liquid diet
B. lying flat
C. burned
D. dizzy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A vertiginous patient is dizzy. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can be caused by various underlying medical conditions affecting the inner ear or brain. So, a vertiginous patient would be experiencing dizziness. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the condition of vertigo.