HESI A2 Reading Comprehension practice questions

Question 1

Passage: Municipal recycling programs ask residents to sort materials such as glass, plastic, and paper into separate bins so that each type can be processed efficiently. However, contamination, which occurs when non-recyclable items or unwashed containers are mixed in with recyclables, can force an entire batch to be sent to a landfill instead of a recycling facility. City officials emphasize that rinsing containers and checking local guidelines before disposal are simple steps that significantly reduce contamination rates.

What is most likely the author's purpose in writing this passage?

1. A To compare the cost of landfill disposal with the cost of recycling processing
2. B To argue that municipal recycling programs should be replaced with private alternatives
3. C To encourage residents to follow proper sorting practices to improve recycling outcomes
4. D To describe the history of how modern recycling bins were first developed and designed

Question 2

Hand hygiene is the single most important measure to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Healthcare workers must wash their hands before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, and after touching contaminated surfaces. Despite this knowledge, compliance rates among staff remain below 50% in many hospitals.

What is the main idea of the passage?

1. A Hospitals have high compliance rates.
2. B Contaminated surfaces are the main source of infection.
3. C Gloves eliminate the need for hand washing.
4. D Hand hygiene is crucial but not always followed.

Question 3

Passage: Circadian rhythm refers to the internal biological clock that regulates sleep, hormone release, and body temperature over a roughly twenty four hour cycle. This rhythm is influenced heavily by exposure to light, particularly sunlight in the morning, which signals the brain to suppress melatonin and promote wakefulness. Disruptions to this natural cycle, such as those caused by night shift work or frequent long distance travel, have been linked to difficulty sleeping and increased fatigue during waking hours.

Which statement best summarizes the passage?

1. A Melatonin suppression is the only factor that determines a person's sleep quality
2. B Long distance travel permanently damages the circadian rhythm in most healthy adults
3. C Night shift workers are unable to adjust their circadian rhythm under any circumstances
4. D The body's internal clock depends on light exposure, and disrupting it can cause sleep problems

Question 4

Despite advances in pain management, many post-surgical patients report inadequate pain relief. A survey of 500 patients found that 60% felt their pain was not well controlled. The authors suggest that better education of nursing staff on pain assessment tools could improve outcomes.

Which of the following is a supporting detail?

1. A 60% of patients felt their pain was not well controlled.
2. B Nursing staff need more education.
3. C Pain management has advanced.
4. D Post-surgical patients often report pain.

Question 5

Read the following passage and answer the question.

Passage: The proposal to mandate influenza vaccination for all healthcare workers has sparked heated debate. Proponents argue it protects vulnerable patients, while opponents cite personal autonomy and potential side effects. This article does not take sides but presents the arguments from both perspectives, allowing readers to form their own opinions.

Question: What is the author's primary purpose?

1. A To describe the controversy without bias.
2. B To oppose mandatory vaccination.
3. C To persuade readers to support mandatory vaccination.
4. D To provide a historical overview of influenza.

Question 6

Read the passage.
The respiratory system has multiple defense mechanisms. The nasal cavity filters large particles through hairs and mucus. The trachea and bronchi are lined with cilia that sweep mucus and trapped debris upward. Alveolar macrophages ingest any small particles that reach the air sacs. Additionally, sneezing and coughing help expel irritants forcefully.
According to the passage, which of the following is a defensive role of alveolar macrophages?

1. A Filtering large particles in the nasal cavity
2. B Ingesting small particles in the alveoli
3. C Sweeping mucus upward from the bronchi
4. D Expelling irritants through sneezing

Question 7

Passage: Accurate blood pressure measurement requires proper technique. The patient should sit quietly for at least five minutes before the reading, with feet flat on the floor and back supported. The cuff must be placed on a bare arm at heart level, and the bladder should encircle at least 80% of the arm. Using a cuff that is too small can falsely elevate the reading.

According to the passage, which of the following is a correct detail about blood pressure measurement?

1. A The cuff bladder should encircle at least 80% of the arm.
2. B A small cuff will give an accurate reading.
3. C The cuff can be placed over clothing if it is thin.
4. D The patient should stand during the measurement.

Question 8

Passage: 'The prevalence of diabetes has increased dramatically over the past two decades, driven largely by lifestyle factors and an aging population. However, early detection and management can significantly reduce complications. Public health campaigns have focused on promoting regular screenings, especially among high-risk groups.' What is the main idea of the passage?

1. A Screenings are unnecessary for low-risk groups.
2. B Aging population is the sole driver of diabetes increase.
3. C Lifestyle choices are the only cause of diabetes.
4. D Diabetes is increasing but manageable with early detection.

Question 9

Passage: "Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is essential for quality care. When patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options, they are more likely to adhere to medical advice. Clear communication also reduces the risk of medical errors. Using plain language, avoiding jargon, and confirming understanding through teach-back methods are strategies that improve patient outcomes."

What is the main idea of the passage?

1. A Clear communication in healthcare leads to better patient outcomes.
2. B Medical errors are always caused by poor communication.
3. C Patients should use medical jargon to communicate with doctors.
4. D Teach-back methods are the only effective communication strategy.

Question 10

Passage: Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, generally smaller than five millimeters, that result from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or from products such as synthetic clothing fibers and personal care items. These particles have been found in ocean water, soil, and even drinking water supplies, raising concerns among scientists about their potential effects on wildlife and human health. Although research on long term health impacts is still ongoing, early studies suggest that microplastics can accumulate in living tissue after being ingested.

Based on the passage, which conclusion is best supported by the evidence presented?

1. A The full health consequences of microplastic exposure are not yet completely understood
2. B Scientists have already determined that microplastics pose no risk to wildlife
3. C Microplastics have been definitively proven to cause serious illness in humans
4. D Personal care products are now required to be free of all plastic materials