what is the main idea of the passage about mrsa

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the passage about MRSA?

A. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, and there are ways to mitigate the risk.
B. A new textile made of nanomaterials could significantly reduce the spread of hospital-associated MRSA infections.
C. There are multiple strains of MRSA, and they pose various risks beyond just fatality.
D. MRSA is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, but there are ways to mitigate the risk.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that MRSA is a significant issue both within and outside of hospitals. It highlights the challenges posed by MRSA, including its resistance to antibiotics, high mortality rates, and widespread presence in various settings. While the development of new technologies like nanomaterial textiles shows promise in reducing hospital-associated MRSA, the passage also emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene to prevent community-associated MRSA infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not capture the comprehensive overview of MRSA provided in the passage. Choice A encompasses the main idea by emphasizing the significance of MRSA and ways to mitigate the risk. Choice B focuses on a specific solution rather than the broader issue of MRSA. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the risks associated with MRSA strains by only mentioning fatality.

2. What is the meaning of the word disparate as used in the first paragraph?

A. Unusual
B. Diverse
C. Trivial
D. Damaging

Correct answer: B

Rationale: "Disparate" means diverse or different. The passage discusses how Lyme disease has various symptoms that mimic other diseases, making it difficult to diagnose.

3. What role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?

A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.

4. What is the relationship between the tilt of the Earth and seasons as explained in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. The tilt of the Earth has no effect on seasons.
B. The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.
C. The tilt of the Earth changes throughout the year.
D. The tilt of the Earth is random and unpredictable.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.' The passage explains that the tilt of the Earth causes the different seasons by changing the amount of sunlight different regions receive. This tilt results in varying angles at which sunlight reaches different parts of the Earth, leading to the seasonal changes in temperature and daylight hours. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the tilt of the Earth does have an effect on the seasons. Choice C is incorrect because the tilt of the Earth remains relatively constant throughout the year. Choice D is incorrect as the tilt of the Earth is not random but follows a consistent pattern.

5. What is the meaning of the word diminished as used in the passage about Concussions?

A. Miniature.
B. Reduced.
C. Recurrent.
D. Hollow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "diminished" means reduced. Substituting the other choices into the sentence does not make sense contextually, whereas "reduced" fits appropriately, confirming B as the correct answer.