what is the main idea of the passage about toxins and your health

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

2. What is the meaning of the word "pulses" as it appears in the first paragraph?

A. The regular throbbing of the arteries caused by successive contractions of the heart
B. The general attitude of the public or a specific population toward health concerns
C. The edible seeds produced by legumes such as peas, beans, or lentils
D. Any type of food with animal origins such as butter, honey, or eggs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "pulses" refers to the edible seeds produced by legumes.

3. The main idea of the passage is ___________.

A. The CDC keeps an eye out for new potentially threatening health issues
B. Children require several more hours of sleep per night than adults do
C. More people are staying up at night to surf the Internet or watch television
D. Lack of adequate sleep is becoming a major national health problem

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that lack of adequate sleep is becoming a major national health problem.

4. What statement about jetlag can be inferred from the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Jetlag is caused by flying at high speeds.
B. Jetlag is caused by moving between time zones.
C. Jetlag is unrelated to time zone changes.
D. Jetlag is a myth.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Jetlag is caused by moving between time zones.' The passage explains that jetlag occurs when moving suddenly from one time zone to another, such as when flying from Asia to North America. This disrupts the body's internal clock, leading to symptoms like tiredness and sleep disturbances. Choice A is incorrect as jetlag is not attributed to high-speed travel but to time zone changes. Choice C is incorrect as the passage clearly links jetlag to changes in time zones. Choice D is incorrect as jetlag is a real phenomenon experienced by individuals who travel across different time zones.

5. A reader might infer from this passage that the organization ___________.

A. succeeded in eradicating malaria
B. has always been led by a medical doctor
C. no longer studies communicable diseases
D. changed its name to match its mission

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage never says whether or not the CDC succeeded in its original mission (choice A) or whether it continued to be led by doctors (choice B). Inferring either of those things would be a leap unsupported by the text. Choice C is countered by information in the final