what is the main idea of the passage about sickle cell anemia

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Bone pain is a symptom of sickle-cell anemia.
B. Sickle-cell anemia affects oxygen transport in the body.
C. Sickle-cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease.
D. Sickle-cell anemia is a painful, inherited disease.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The passage focuses on describing sickle-cell anemia as a painful and inherited disease. It details how the abnormal sickle-shaped cells cause symptoms like bone pain, fever, and fatigue. While bone pain is mentioned as a symptom, it is not the main idea of the passage. Choice A is incorrect. Choice B, which mentions oxygen transport, is not the main idea but a general concept. Choice C, stating genetically inherited diseases affect thousands, is too broad and does not focus on the specifics of sickle-cell anemia. Therefore, D is the most precise choice.

2. As used in the second paragraph, what does the term ubiquitous mean?

A. Indigenous
B. Often ignored
C. Found everywhere
D. Dangerous

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Found everywhere.' Ubiquitous in this context means widespread presence. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that MRSA bacteria have become ubiquitous not only in hospitals but also in various other settings, indicating they are found everywhere. Choice A, 'Indigenous,' is incorrect as it refers to something native or originating from a specific place, which is not the intended meaning in the context. Choice B, 'Often ignored,' is incorrect as ubiquitous means something that is widely present, not something that is ignored. Choice D, 'Dangerous,' is incorrect as ubiquitous does not directly imply danger, but rather the widespread presence of something.

3. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to Super Foods?

A. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids.
B. Lentils are high in both protein and fiber.
C. Pomegranates are delicious and healthful.
D. Oats move slowly through the digestive tract.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement about pomegranates being delicious and healthful reflects a subjective opinion about taste and health benefits. This contrasts with the other options, which present factual information about the nutritional content of walnuts, lentils, and oats, making C the correct choice for an opinion.

4. What is the meaning of the word supplementation as used in the second paragraph?

A. Extra
B. Organization
C. Attachment
D. Revision

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The term "supplementation" refers to the addition of nutrients to the diet. In the context of the passage, it highlights the need for seniors to receive extra nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D beyond what they typically consume in their diets. This reflects the understanding that seniors may not get sufficient nutrition solely from their regular meals, supporting option A.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'ideal' as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. thoughtful
B. confined
C. hostile
D. perfect

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, 'ideal' means perfect. The human body provides a perfect environment for many microbes, as stated in the extract. It is the immune system's role to keep these microbes out or destroy them. The other choices are incorrect: 'thoughtful' does not fit the context of the sentence, 'confined' and 'hostile' are not synonymous with 'ideal' in this context.