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 statement from the article draws a conclusion?

A. Chopsticks can be hard to use.
B. Eating with cutlery was invented in Europe.
C. It is interesting to discover new ways to do things.
D. Space travel has created new challenges for eating.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'It is interesting to discover new ways to do things.' This statement draws a conclusion by summarizing the learning experience mentioned throughout the article. It reflects on the diversity of eating habits across cultures and the fascination in discovering and adapting to new methods of accomplishing tasks. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a fact rather than drawing a conclusion. Choice B is incorrect as it also presents a historical fact without concluding or summarizing any information. Choice D is incorrect because it states a fact about the challenges of space travel without offering a concluding remark or summarizing the topic.

3. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about Hypertension?

A. Maintaining a healthy weight may help to prevent hypertension.
B. There is presently no reliable treatment for hypertension.
C. Your ethnicity may contribute to your risk for hypertension.
D. A 60-year-old is more likely to have hypertension than a teenager is.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage clearly states that there are treatments for hypertension, so the statement that there is presently no reliable treatment for hypertension cannot be inferred from the text. Choice A can be inferred from paragraph 3 where it mentions losing weight to decrease blood pressure. Choice C can be inferred from paragraph 1 where it states that African Americans are more likely to have hypertension. Choice D can be inferred from paragraph 2 where it explains that older people are most often diagnosed with hypertension due to changes in blood vessels as they age.

4. Which of the following is not mentioned as being important for seniors?

A. Vitamin B12
B. Calcium
C. Nitrates
D. Exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage lists important nutrients for seniors, including fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and B12, while exercise is also discussed as crucial for health. However, nitrates are not mentioned at all, making option C correct since it stands out as the only nutrient not discussed in the context of seniors’ health

5. What is the meaning of the word viable as used in the last paragraph?

A. Reasonable
B. Unresolved
C. Contemporary
D. Consistent

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "viable" means reasonable or feasible, referring to the acceptability of acupuncture as a treatment option based on the study's results. This definition aligns with the implications made in the conclusion of the study, thus supporting option A.