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. When a symptom is exacerbated, it is ___________.

A. not dangerous
B. disfiguring
C. painful
D. made worse

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a symptom is exacerbated, it means that it is made worse or intensified beyond its usual level of severity. This can lead to increased discomfort, pain, or other negative effects associated with that particular symptom. Choice A is incorrect because exacerbation does not imply that the symptom is not dangerous. Choice B is incorrect as exacerbation does not necessarily mean disfiguring. Choice C is incorrect as exacerbation does not always specifically refer to pain, but to any worsening of a symptom.

3. What is another word for flux?

A. Flowing
B. Restriction
C. Absorption
D. Discharge

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Flux is a term used to describe a discharge, which refers to the action of discharging or releasing something. In medical contexts, flux can specifically refer to a discharge of bodily fluids or matter. 'Flowing' (Choice A) is not a synonym of flux; it implies continuous movement rather than discharge. 'Restriction' (Choice B) and 'Absorption' (Choice C) are unrelated to the concept of flux and do not convey the same meaning.

4. What is the outer bone in the lower leg called?

A. fascia
B. fibrous
C. filial
D. fibula

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The outer bone in the lower leg is called the fibula, not fascia, fibrous, or filial. The fibula is a slender bone that runs alongside the larger tibia in the lower leg. While it provides stability and support to leg muscles, its main function is not weight-bearing like the tibia. Therefore, the correct answer is the fibula.

5. The development of the disease was INSIDIOUS.

A. Momentous
B. Sudden
C. Innocuous
D. Gradual

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The term 'insidious' typically describes something that occurs gradually and subtly, often without being noticed until it has become more serious or established. Therefore, the development of the disease being insidious suggests that it was gradual, aligning best with the meaning of the word in this context. Choice A, 'momentous,' means significant or important, which is opposite in meaning to insidious. Choice B, 'sudden,' indicates something happening quickly and unexpectedly, contrary to the gradual nature of an insidious development. Choice C, 'innocuous,' means harmless or not likely to cause harm, which does not accurately reflect the negative and harmful connotation associated with an insidious disease development.