HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test 2026-2027 and Free Sample Questions

Read the passage and answer the question. The clinic added evening appointment hours last year. Since then, the number of working patients who keep their scheduled visits has risen sharply, and fewer appointments are missed overall. The clinic director plans to add weekend hours next. Which conclusion can best be inferred from the passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. The medication had a potent effect on the patient's blood pressure. Within an hour of the first dose, the patient's elevated readings had dropped substantially, and the staff adjusted the monitoring plan to watch for any further changes. As used in the passage, the word potent most nearly means

Read the passage and answer the question. To remove a splinter safely, first wash your hands and clean the area with soap and water. Use clean tweezers to grasp the end of the splinter and pull it out gently along the direction it entered. Afterward, wash the area again and apply a clean bandage. What is the author's primary purpose in this passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. The common cold is caused by viruses, not bacteria. Because antibiotics work only against bacteria, they are not effective against the cold. Rest, fluids, and time are the main ways the body recovers from a cold. According to the passage, why are antibiotics not effective against the common cold?

Read the passage and answer the question. The new hospital wing has 50 private rooms and opened in March. Each room has a window and a private bathroom. The new wing is by far the most beautiful part of the entire hospital. Which sentence from the passage expresses an opinion?

Read the passage and answer the question. To prepare a patient room for a new admission, the housekeeping staff first cleans and disinfects all surfaces. Next, the nursing staff stocks the room with linens and supplies. Finally, the charge nurse confirms the room is ready before the patient is brought in. According to the passage, what happens immediately after the surfaces are cleaned and disinfected?

Read the passage and answer the question. The instructions for the device were ambiguous, leaving the staff unsure how to proceed. One sentence seemed to say the part should be removed, while another suggested it should stay in place. The team had to call the manufacturer for clarification. As used in the passage, the word ambiguous most nearly means

Read the passage and answer the question. Every morning, the night shift nurse left detailed notes about each patient for the day shift. The notes listed any changes in condition, new orders, and concerns to watch. The day shift nurses said they always felt prepared when they arrived. What can best be inferred about the night shift nurse from the passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. Handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness. Washing with soap and water removes germs that can be passed to others through touch. Many infections could be avoided if people washed their hands at key times, such as before eating and after using the restroom. Which statement best expresses the main idea?

Read the passage and answer the question. The supervisor praised the new employee for being diligent. She arrived on time each day, completed every task carefully, and double checked her work before submitting it. Her steady effort did not go unnoticed. As used in the passage, the word diligent most nearly means

Read the passage and answer the question. The volunteers at the children's hospital bring warmth and joy to every floor they visit. They read stories, share gentle smiles, and sit with children who feel lonely. Their kindness leaves a lasting impression on patients and families alike. What is the author's tone in this passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. A pharmacy started sending text message reminders to patients when prescriptions were ready and when refills were due. Over the following months, the number of patients who picked up their medications on time increased, and fewer prescriptions went unfilled. Which conclusion is best supported by the passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. The skin is the body's largest organ. It serves as a protective barrier against germs, helps regulate body temperature, and contains nerve endings that sense touch, pressure, and pain. Caring for the skin is an important part of overall health. According to the passage, which of the following is a function of the skin?

Read the passage and answer the question. Getting enough sleep is essential for good health. During sleep, the body repairs tissues, strengthens the immune system, and stores memories. People who regularly get too little sleep are more likely to have trouble concentrating and may face greater health risks over time. Which statement best expresses the main idea?

Read the passage and answer the question. The patient made a remarkable recovery after the surgery. Doctors had expected a long and slow healing process, but instead the patient regained strength quickly and surprised the entire care team. As used in the passage, the word remarkable most nearly means

Read the passage and answer the question. Smoking damages nearly every organ in the body and is a leading cause of preventable illness and death. Quitting smoking improves health at any age, even after years of use. If you smoke, please consider talking with your provider about a plan to quit today. What is the author's primary purpose in this passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. The hospital cafeteria began offering more fresh fruit, salads, and water near the front of the serving area, while placing sugary snacks and drinks toward the back. Over time, sales of the healthier options rose, and staff reported feeling more energized during their shifts. Which conclusion can best be inferred from the passage?

Read the passage and answer the question. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is needed for strong bones. The body can produce vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, and it is also found in certain foods such as fortified milk and fatty fish. According to the passage, how can the body produce vitamin D?

Read the passage and answer the question. The new check in system was designed to expedite the registration process. Instead of waiting in a long line, patients could enter their information at a kiosk and be seen much sooner. Wait times in the lobby dropped noticeably. As used in the passage, the word expedite most nearly means