what does the term elasticity mean as used in the passage about hypertension

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What does the term elasticity mean, as used in the passage about Hypertension?

A. Firmness.
B. Compactness.
C. Flexibility.
D. Rigidity.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elasticity, as used in the passage about Hypertension, refers to the stretchiness or flexibility of blood vessels. The text mentions that blood vessels lose elasticity and stiffen as a person ages, indicating that they become less flexible. This eliminates choices A and D (Firmness and Rigidity) as the correct answers. Choice B (Compactness) is unrelated to the concept of elasticity in the context of blood vessels and is therefore incorrect. Understanding elasticity as the ability to stretch or flex helps in choosing flexibility as the correct answer.

2. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

3. What is the meaning of the phrase 'phased in' as it is used in the third paragraph?

A. stunned into silence
B. confused
C. implemented in stages
D. legalized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: 'Phased in' means implemented in stages, referring to the gradual implementation of good manufacturing practices. In the provided extract, it mentions that requirements for good manufacturing practices (GMPs) were phased in for small manufacturers through 2010, indicating a gradual implementation process. The other choices, 'stunned into silence,' 'confused,' and 'legalized,' do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'phased in' in the context of the paragraph.

4. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about MRSA?

A. Hospitals may soon limit the spread of infection with a new textile.
B. MRSA begins by infecting the skin.
C. You are most likely to contract MRSA in a crowded location.
D. Used clothing stores may harbor MRSA.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Used clothing stores may harbor MRSA.' This statement is not supported by the passage. The passage mentions the spread of MRSA in hospitals, gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, and other settings with frequent human contact, but it does not mention used clothing stores as a common location for MRSA. Therefore, it is an unlikely inference. Choice A is supported by the passage as it discusses the development of a new textile to halt the spread of hospital-associated MRSA. Choice B is also supported as the passage mentions MRSA as a skin infection. Choice C is supported by the passage as it states that MRSA has become ubiquitous in settings with frequent human contact.

5. What does the passage on Bridge imply about playing the game?

A. Playing bridge requires concentration.
B. Bridge is only for older people.
C. Bridge is extremely easy to learn.
D. Bridge is too hard for beginners to learn.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage implies that playing bridge requires concentration, focus, and mental effort. It mentions that Bridge can be complicated for beginners but with time, effort, and a good teacher, even novices can become proficient. The description of the game's components, such as bidding and playing, highlights the need for the player's undivided attention. The passage doesn't suggest that Bridge is exclusively for older people (B), extremely easy to learn (C), or too hard for beginners to learn (D).