ATI TEAS Version 7 English and Language Usage section

ATI TEAS Version 7 English and Language Usage section

To do well on the ATI TEAS Version 7 English and Language Usage section, you need a strong grasp of conventions of standard English, knowledge of language, and vocabulary acquisition.

Here is a comprehensive breakdown of every grammar topic on the TEAS 7, complete with sample questions, answers, and detailed rationales.

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Topic 1: Subject-Verb Agreement

The Rule:

Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs. Watch out for prepositional phrases, inverted sentences, and indefinite pronouns that separate the subject from the verb.

Sample Question:

The box of medical supplies, along with the diagnostic equipment, __________ been delivered to the surgical wing.

A) have
B) has
C) are
D) were

Answer:

B) has

Rationale:

The subject is "The box" (singular). The phrases "of medical supplies" and "along with the diagnostic equipment" are interrupters and do not change the singularity of the subject. Therefore, the singular verb "has" is correct.

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Topic 2: Pronoun Agreement and Case

The Rule:

Pronouns must agree with their antecedents in number (singular/plural) and gender. They must also be in the correct case (Subjective: I/he/she/we; Objective: me/him/her/us; Possessive: my/his/hers/ours).

Sample Question:

Each of the nurses must submit __________ shift preference by Friday.

A) their
B) his or her
C) its
D) our

Answer:

B) his or her

Rationale:

"Each" is a singular indefinite pronoun. Therefore, the pronoun referring to it must be singular. "Their" is plural, so "his or her" is the grammatically correct singular choice (unless a specific gender is known).

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Topic 3: Verb Tenses (Past, Present, Future, and Perfect Tenses)

The Rule:

Verb tense must remain consistent within a sentence and across a passage unless there is a clear reason to shift time frames (e.g., "I thought [past] that he is [present] nice" is incorrect; it should be "I thought that he was nice").

Sample Question:

The researcher discovered that the lab technician __________ the samples incorrectly the day before.

A) labels
B) will label
C) had labeled
D) is labeling

Answer:

C) had labeled

Rationale:

The main verb "discovered" is in the past tense. The labeling happened before the discovery (past perfect tense). "Had labeled" correctly establishes the sequence of events (past-in-the-past).

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Topic 4: Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices

The Rule:

A run-on occurs when two independent clauses are joined without punctuation. A comma splice occurs when they are joined only by a comma. Fix them with a period, a semicolon, or a comma + a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).

Sample Question:

The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly the team rushed to administer emergency medication.

Which of the following correctly corrects the sentence?

A) The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly, the team rushed to administer emergency medication.

B) The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly; the team rushed to administer emergency medication.

C) The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly and the team rushed to administer emergency medication.

D) The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly the team rushing to administer emergency medication.

Answer:

B) The patient’s blood pressure dropped suddenly; the team rushed to administer emergency medication.

Rationale:

Option A is a comma splice. Option C changes the meaning slightly (and is still a bit clunky). Option D is a fragment. Option B correctly uses a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses.

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Topic 5: Sentence Fragments

The Rule:

A complete sentence must have a subject and a predicate and express a complete thought. Fragments often start with subordinating conjunctions (because, although, since) without a main clause.

Sample Question:

Which of the following is a complete sentence?

A) Although the test results were inconclusive.

B) The physician ordering additional blood work.

C) Because the patient reported severe pain in her lower abdomen.

D) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise regimen.

Answer:

D) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise regimen.

Rationale:

Choice D has a clear subject ("therapist"), action verb ("recommended"), and complete thought. Choices A, B, and C are fragments (B lacks a main verb; A and C are dependent clauses left hanging).

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Topic 6: Misplaced and Dangling Modifiers

The Rule:

Modifiers (descriptive words/phrases) must be placed directly next to the noun they are describing. If not, they "dangle" or are "misplaced," causing confusion.

Sample Question:

Suffering from severe dehydration, the IV fluids were administered immediately.

Which of the following corrects the dangling modifier?

A) Suffering from severe dehydration, the IV fluids were given by the nurse.

B) Suffering from severe dehydration, the doctor administered the IV fluids immediately.

C) Suffering from severe dehydration, immediate administration of IV fluids occurred.

D) Suffering from severe dehydration, the IV fluids were immediately administered by the staff.

Answer:

B) Suffering from severe dehydration, the doctor administered the IV fluids immediately.

Rationale:

The introductory phrase "Suffering from severe dehydration" must logically modify the noun immediately following the comma. IV fluids cannot suffer from dehydration; the doctor (or the patient) can. Option B correctly places "doctor" as the subject next to the modifier.

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Topic 7: Commonly Confused Words (Homophones)

The Rule:

You must know the difference between frequently misused words.

• Affect (verb = to influence) vs. Effect (noun = a result)
• There (place) vs. Their (possession) vs. They're (they are)
• Your (possession) vs. You're (you are)
• Too (excessively/also) vs. To (preposition/infinitive) vs. Two (number)

Sample Question:

The new medication had a noticeable __________ on the patient’s heart rate, but the nurse was unsure if it would __________ her blood pressure.

A) affect; effect

B) effect; affect

C) affect; affect

D) effect; effect

Answer:

B) effect; affect

Rationale:

The first blank needs a noun (a result), so "effect" is correct. The second blank needs an action verb (to influence), so "affect" is correct.

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Topic 8: Spelling (Plurals, Suffixes, and Commonly Misspelled Words)

The Rule:

You must identify correctly spelled words, especially medical and academic vocabulary. Watch for rules about dropping the final 'e' before adding a suffix (e.g., hope + ing = hoping) and changing 'y' to 'i' (e.g., beauty + ful = beautiful).

Sample Question:

Which of the following words is spelled correctly?

A) Acommodate

B) Accommodate

C) Accomodate

D) Acommodate

Answer:

B) Accommodate

Rationale:

"Accommodate" is one of the most commonly misspelled words. It has two **'c'**s and two **'m'**s.

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Topic 9: Capitalization Rules

The Rule:

Capitalize proper nouns (specific names), the first word of a sentence, days/months/holidays, titles when used before a name (Dr. Smith), and official job titles when used as a direct address.

Sample Question:

Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?

A) The Surgeon General issued a warning about smoking on monday.

B) The surgeon general issued a warning about smoking on Monday.

C) The Surgeon General issued a warning about smoking on Monday.

D) The surgeon General issued a warning about smoking on monday.

Answer:

C) The Surgeon General issued a warning about smoking on Monday.

Rationale:

"Surgeon General" is an official title and proper noun, so both words are capitalized. "Monday" is a day of the week and must also be capitalized.

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Topic 10: Punctuation (Commas, Apostrophes, Colons, Semicolons)

The Rule:

Apostrophes: Show possession (the nurse's chart) or contractions (it is = it's). Its shows possession (no apostrophe).

Colons (:): Introduce a list or explanation.

Semicolons (;): Join two complete, related sentences without a conjunction.

Sample Question:

The medical chart indicated three vital signs were abnormal temperature, pulse, and respiration.

Which of the following correctly punctuates the sentence?

A) abnormal; temperature, pulse, and respiration.

B) abnormal: temperature, pulse, and respiration.

C) abnormal, temperature, pulse, and respiration.

D) abnormal. Temperature, pulse, and respiration.

Answer:

B) abnormal: temperature, pulse, and respiration.

Rationale:

A colon is used after an independent clause to introduce a list. Choices A (semicolon) and C (comma) create comma splices or run-ons. Choice D is a sentence fragment after the period.

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Topic 11: Coordinating vs. Subordinating Conjunctions

The Rule:

Coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) join equal parts. Subordinating conjunctions (Because, Although, Since, While, When) introduce dependent clauses and show a relationship (cause/effect, contrast).

Sample Question:

__________ the patient was tired, she stayed awake to complete the neurological assessment.

A) So

B) And

C) Although

D) For

Answer:

C) Although

Rationale:

The sentence shows a contrast (she was tired, but she stayed awake). "Although" is a subordinating conjunction that correctly shows this contrast. "So" and "For" show cause/effect; "And" shows addition.

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Topic 12: Context Clues and Vocabulary (Tier 2 & 3 Words)

The Rule:

You will be asked to determine the meaning of an unfamiliar word based on the surrounding text. Look for synonyms, antonyms, examples, or definitions within the sentence.

Sample Question:

The patient’s condition was enervating; after merely walking to the bathroom, she felt completely exhausted and had to lie down.

What does the word "enervating" most likely mean?

A) Energizing

B) Debilitating

C) Healing

D) Confusing

Answer:

B) Debilitating

Rationale:

The context clue "she felt completely exhausted" tells us that enervating means draining of energy or weakening. "Debilitating" is the closest synonym. (Energizing is the opposite).

Part 1 (Questions 1–35)

1. The team of researchers __________ conducting the clinical trial at the downtown medical center.
A) are
B) were
C) is
D) have been

2. Each of the patients __________ required to sign a new consent form before the procedure.
A) are
B) were
C) have been
D) was

3. Neither the nurses nor the charge nurse __________ available to cover the evening shift.
A) are
B) were
C) is
D) have been

4. The pile of old patient charts, along with the broken filing cabinet, __________ taking up too much space in the office.
A) are
B) is
C) were
D) have been

5. Every one of the lab technicians __________ to wear protective eyewear at all times.
A) are required
B) were required
C) is required
D) have been required

6. The surgeon, together with her residents, __________ rounding on all post-operative patients this morning.
A) are
B) were
C) have been
D) is

7. Either the attending physician or the interns __________ responsible for updating the whiteboard daily.
A) are
B) is
C) was
D) has been

8. The data from the multiple studies __________ conflicting, so the committee decided to wait for more results.
A) are
B) is
C) was
D) has been

9. Each of the new syringes __________ individually wrapped and sterilized.
A) are
B) were
C) is
D) have been

10. The group of volunteers __________ donating their time to the free health clinic every weekend.
A) are
B) were
C) is
D) have been

11. Anyone who forgot to submit __________ lab results must do so by noon tomorrow.
A) their
B) his or her
C) our
D) your

12. The hospital board announced that __________ would revise the visitor policy effective next month.
A) it
B) they
C) he
D) she

13. Neither of the two candidates felt that __________ presentation went well during the interview.
A) their
B) his or her
C) our
D) your

14. The nursing staff prides __________ on providing compassionate end-of-life care.
A) himself
B) herself
C) itself
D) themselves

15. When the patient asked for pain medication, the nurse told __________ that the doctor would be in shortly.
A) they
B) them
C) him or her
D) their

16. The medical director, along with the chief of surgery, submitted __________ proposal for the new OR schedule.
A) their
B) his
C) her
D) our

17. Everyone in the intensive care unit must check __________ equipment before the shift change.
A) their
B) his or her
C) our
D) your

18. After the pharmacy technician counted the pills, __________ placed them in the labeled bottle.
A) he or she
B) they
C) we
D) them

19. The radiology department updated __________ scheduling system to reduce patient wait times.
A) its
B) it's
C) their
D) our

20. If any staff member has a conflict with the new schedule, __________ should speak with the manager immediately.
A) they
B) we
C) he or she
D) you

21. By the time the ambulance arrived, the paramedic __________ already administered oxygen to the patient.
A) has
B) have
C) had
D) was

22. The clinical trial __________ for nearly five years before the results were finally published.
A) has been ongoing
B) is ongoing
C) had been ongoing
D) will be ongoing

23. The nurse practitioner __________ the wound dressing right now and will be with you shortly.
A) changes
B) changed
C) is changing
D) had changed

24. Last week, the dietitian __________ a new meal plan for each of the diabetic patients.
A) creates
B) will create
C) created
D) had created

25. By next January, the hospital __________ its electronic health record system to the new platform.
A) upgrades
B) upgraded
C) has upgraded
D) will have upgraded

26. The phlebotomist __________ blood samples from patients every morning before breakfast.
A) draws
B) drew
C) has drawn
D) had drawn

27. The researcher realized that she __________ the control group data earlier that day.
A) forgets
B) forgot
C) had forgotten
D) will forget

28. While the attending physician __________ rounds, the intern took notes on each patient's progress.
A) made
B) was making
C) has made
D) makes

29. The medical assistant __________ the exam room for the next patient when the fire alarm went off.
A) prepared
B) prepares
C) has prepared
D) was preparing

30. The cardiologist __________ three complex procedures so far this week.
A) performs
B) performed
C) has performed
D) had performed

31. The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low the respiratory therapist initiated immediate ventilation.
A) The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low, the respiratory therapist initiated immediate ventilation.
B) The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low; the respiratory therapist initiated immediate ventilation.
C) The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low and the respiratory therapist initiated immediate ventilation.
D) The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low the respiratory therapist initiating immediate ventilation.

32. The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient she also suggested aquatic therapy.
A) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient, she also suggested aquatic therapy.
B) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient; she also suggested aquatic therapy.
C) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient also she suggested aquatic therapy.
D) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient and she also suggested aquatic therapy.

33. The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases the staff struggled to maintain efficient triage.
A) The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases, the staff struggled to maintain efficient triage.
B) The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases and the staff struggled to maintain efficient triage.
C) The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases; the staff struggled to maintain efficient triage.
D) The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases the staff struggling to maintain efficient triage.

34. The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure instead it caused a severe allergic reaction.
A) The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure, instead it caused a severe allergic reaction.
B) The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure instead; it caused a severe allergic reaction.
C) The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure; instead, it caused a severe allergic reaction.
D) The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure instead it caused a severe allergic reaction.

35. The lab results indicated a possible infection the physician ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
A) The lab results indicated a possible infection, the physician ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
B) The lab results indicated a possible infection and the physician ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
C) The lab results indicated a possible infection; the physician ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
D) The lab results indicated a possible infection the physician ordering a broad-spectrum antibiotic.

36. Which of the following is a complete sentence?
A) Because the patient was experiencing acute chest pain.
B) The nurse checking the defibrillator pads before the code.
C) Although the surgeon had completed the procedure successfully.
D) The pharmacist reviewed the dosage calculations thoroughly.

37. Which of the following is a complete sentence?
A) Since the new MRI machine was installed last Tuesday.
B) The medical records department relocating to the third floor.
C) After the patient signed the informed consent document.
D) The palliative care team met with the family this morning.

38. Which of the following is a complete sentence?
A) When the lab technician calibrated the centrifuge.
B) The physical therapy session lasting over an hour.
C) The dietary aide delivered the breakfast trays to all the rooms.
D) Although the infection control protocols were strictly followed.

39. Which of the following is a complete sentence?
A) Before the attending physician arrived on the unit.
B) The wound care nurse changing the dressing twice daily.
C) Because the patient refused to take the oral medication.
D) The discharge planner coordinated the home health services.

40. Which of the following is a complete sentence?
A) The nursing supervisor approving the overtime requests.
B) Once the blood culture results come back from the lab.
C) The occupational therapist taught the patient adaptive techniques.
D) While the anesthesiologist prepared the sedation medication.

41. Having completed the complex surgery, the recovery room was prepared for the patient.
A) Having completed the complex surgery, the recovery room was prepared for the patient by the nurses.
B) Having completed the complex surgery, the nurses prepared the recovery room for the patient.
C) Having completed the complex surgery, preparation of the recovery room was done by the nurses.
D) Having completed the complex surgery, the recovery room being prepared for the patient.

42. To administer the IV medication correctly, the infusion pump was programmed by the nurse.
A) To administer the IV medication correctly, the nurse programmed the infusion pump.
B) To administer the IV medication correctly, the infusion pump was programmed.
C) To administer the IV medication correctly, programming of the infusion pump was done.
D) To administer the IV medication correctly, the infusion pump was programmed by the nursing staff.

43. Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, the patient's chart was updated before leaving.
A) Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, the chart was updated before the nurse left.
B) Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, the nurse updated the patient's chart before leaving.
C) Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, the patient's chart was updated by the nurse before leaving.
D) Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, updating the patient's chart happened before leaving.

44. Walking through the busy emergency room, the stretcher was moved out of the way.
A) Walking through the busy emergency room, the stretcher was moved out of the way by the orderly.
B) Walking through the busy emergency room, the orderly moved the stretcher out of the way.
C) Walking through the busy emergency room, movement of the stretcher occurred.
D) Walking through the busy emergency room, the stretcher being moved out of the way.

45. To properly assess the patient's neurological status, the penlight was used to check pupil response.
A) To properly assess the patient's neurological status, the nurse used the penlight to check pupil response.
B) To properly assess the patient's neurological status, the penlight was used by the nurse.
C) To properly assess the patient's neurological status, use of the penlight was implemented.
D) To properly assess the patient's neurological status, the penlight checking pupil response.

46. The new policy had an immediate __________ on staff morale, but it did not __________ the overall turnover rate.
A) affect; effect
B) effect; affect
C) affect; affect
D) effect; effect

47. The nurse reminded the patient to take __________ medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
A) there
B) their
C) they're
D) your

48. __________ going to be late for the shift change if the elevator does not arrive soon.
A) There
B) Their
C) They're
D) Your

49. The surgeon placed the retractor __________ the incision site to improve visibility.
A) to
B) too
C) two
D) at

50. The dietitian explained that __________ are three main food groups that should be emphasized in a cardiac diet.
A) there
B) their
C) they're
D) your

51. The medication dosage was __________ high for the pediatric patient, so the pharmacist reduced it.
A) to
B) too
C) two
D) for

52. The physical therapist asked if __________ ready to begin the ambulation exercises.
A) your
B) you're
C) there
D) their

53. The hospital administration emphasized __________ commitment to patient-centered care.
A) there
B) their
C) they're
D) its

54. The new graduate nurse was unsure how the medication would __________ the patient's renal function.
A) effect
B) affect
C) evoke
D) adopt

55. The nursing students were told to bring __________ stethoscopes to the clinical skills lab.
A) there
B) their
C) they're
D) them

56. The patient reported that __________ was a sharp pain in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.
A) there
B) their
C) they're
D) your

57. The hospital implemented a new policy to reduce medication errors, and __________ impact on patient safety was significant.
A) its
B) it's
C) their
D) there

58. The nurse checked the intravenous pump __________ ensure the correct flow rate was maintained.
A) to
B) too
C) two
D) for

59. The chief of surgery __________ going to review the operative notes before the morning meeting.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) have been

60. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Seperate
B) Separate
C) Seprate
D) Sepparate

61. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Occasion
B) Occassion
C) Ocation
D) Ocasion

62. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Priviledge
B) Priveledge
C) Privilege
D) Privelege

63. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Maintenence
B) Maintenance
C) Maintainance
D) Maintanence

64. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Perscription
B) Prescription
C) Prescripsion
D) Perscripsion

65. Which of the following words is spelled correctly?
A) Embarrass
B) Embarass
C) Embarras
D) Embaras

66. Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?
A) The cardiology Department scheduled the stress test for tuesday morning.
B) The Cardiology department scheduled the stress test for Tuesday morning.
C) The cardiology department scheduled the stress test for Tuesday morning.
D) The Cardiology Department scheduled the Stress Test for Tuesday Morning.

67. Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?
A) The doctor informed the patient that Dr. Adams would perform the surgery on friday.
B) The Doctor informed the patient that Dr. Adams would perform the surgery on Friday.
C) The doctor informed the patient that dr. Adams would perform the surgery on Friday.
D) The doctor informed the patient that Dr. Adams would perform the surgery on Friday.

68. Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?
A) The nursing supervisor said, "please complete the incident report before you leave."
B) The nursing supervisor said, "Please complete the incident report before you leave."
C) The Nursing Supervisor said, "Please complete the incident report before you leave."
D) The nursing supervisor said, "Please complete the Incident Report before you leave."

69. Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?
A) The hospital will host a seminar on Diabetes Management in the spring.
B) The hospital will host a seminar on diabetes management in the Spring.
C) The Hospital will host a seminar on diabetes management in the spring.
D) The hospital will host a seminar on diabetes management in the spring.

70. Which of the following sentences uses correct capitalization?
A) The patient was referred to the oncology clinic by Dr. Chen.
B) The patient was referred to the Oncology Clinic by Dr. Chen.
C) The Patient was referred to the oncology clinic by Dr. Chen.
D) The patient was referred to the oncology Clinic by dr. Chen.

71. The patient's discharge instructions included three key points medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
A) points: medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
B) points; medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
C) points, medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
D) points. Medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.

72. The nurses station was fully stocked with supplies gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.
A) supplies; gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.
B) supplies, gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.
C) supplies: gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.
D) supplies. Gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.

73. The patients vital signs were stable but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.
A) patients vital signs were stable, but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.
B) patient's vital signs were stable, but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.
C) patients' vital signs were stable, but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.
D) patient's vital signs were stable but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.

74. The hospitals new policy on hand hygiene was introduced during the monthly staff meeting.
A) hospitals new policy
B) hospital's new policy
C) hospitals' new policy
D) hospital new policy

75. The nurse placed the patients chart on the desk next to the physicians order sheet.
A) patients chart; physicians order sheet
B) patient's chart; physician's order sheet
C) patients' chart; physicians' order sheet
D) patient's chart; physicians order sheet

76. __________ the patient was experiencing significant pain, she refused the opioid medication due to previous side effects.
A) So
B) And
C) Although
D) For

77. The medical assistant finished the intake process, __________ she escorted the patient to the examination room.
A) although
B) because
C) and
D) since

78. __________ the lab results were normal, the physician decided to order additional imaging studies.
A) Although
B) So
C) For
D) Yet

79. The patient needed to fast for eight hours __________ the blood draw would be accurate.
A) although
B) so that
C) because
D) unless

80. __________ the nurse provided clear discharge instructions, the patient called twice with follow-up questions.
A) Although
B) Because
C) Since
D) So

81. The patients symptoms were quite equivocal; the physician could not definitively diagnose the condition based on the initial presentation alone.
A) Clear and obvious
B) Ambiguous or uncertain
C) Severe and life-threatening
D) Mild and temporary

82. The medication was contraindicated for the elderly patient because it could exacerbate her existing heart condition.
A) Highly recommended
B) Advisable
C) Not recommended or prohibited
D) Neutral with no effect

83. The research findings were corroborated by three separate studies conducted at different institutions.
A) Contradicted
B) Questioned
C) Confirmed or supported
D) Ignored

84. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, requiring intervention from the critical care team within minutes.
A) Observation
B) Assessment
C) Deliberate action or treatment
D) Documentation

85. The nurse used a tenuous grasp to hold the fragile intravenous line in place during the patient's movement.
A) Firm and strong
B) Delicate and weak
C) Confident and steady
D) Careless and reckless

86. The side effects of the treatment were transient, resolving completely within a few hours after administration.
A) Permanent
B) Severe
C) Temporary
D) Predictable

87. The surgeon was known for her meticulous attention to detail during complex procedures.
A) Careless
B) Extremely careful and precise
C) Average and unremarkable
D) Rushed and hasty

88. The patient's verbal response was incoherent, making it difficult for the triage nurse to assess the level of consciousness.
A) Clear and logical
B) Loud and forceful
C) Disjointed and unintelligible
D) Quiet and hesitant

89. The hospital implemented stringent infection control protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.
A) Lax and relaxed
B) Strict and rigorous
C) Optional and flexible
D) Outdated and irrelevant

90. The therapy was adjunctive, meaning it was used in addition to the primary treatment plan.
A) Unnecessary
B) Primary and main
C) Supplemental or additional
D) Experimental and unproven

91. The patient exhibited diminished breath sounds in the lower lobes of both lungs.
A) Increased
B) Reduced or weakened
C) Sharp and clear
D) Irregular and erratic

92. The new electronic health record system is designed to be intuitive for users of all experience levels.
A) Complicated and confusing
B) Easy to understand and use
C) Slow and inefficient
D) Expensive and impractical

93. The medical team faced a daunting challenge when the patient developed multiple complications simultaneously.
A) Simple and easy
B) Exciting and enjoyable
C) Intimidating and overwhelming
D) Routine and predictable

94. The dietitian recommended a judicious approach to carbohydrate intake for the diabetic patient.
A) Reckless and careless
B) Wise and carefully considered
C) Restrictive and harsh
D) Unimportant and irrelevant

95. The virus was highly virulent, spreading rapidly through the long-term care facility.
A) Harmless and benign
B) Extremely infectious and severe
C) Slow and contained
D) Treatable with standard medications

96. The patient's family was apprehensive about the upcoming surgical procedure.
A) Excited and eager
B) Anxious and fearful
C) Confident and assured
D) Indifferent and unconcerned

97. The laboratory results showed a marked improvement in the patient's white blood cell count.
A) Noticeable and significant
B) Slight and minor
C) Unexpected and strange
D) Deceptive and misleading

98. The nurse administered the medication in a diluted form to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
A) Concentrated and strong
B) Weakened or thinned out
C) Solid and tablet-based
D) Fast-acting and immediate

99. The hospital's mission statement emphasizes compassionate care for all patients regardless of background.
A) Indifferent and cold
B) Professional and efficient
C) Kind and empathetic
D) Strict and formal

100. The patient's mobility was impaired following the hip replacement surgery.
A) Improved and enhanced
B) Unchanged and normal
C) Weakened or damaged
D) Accelerated and increased

101. The new triage protocol was designed to expedite the care of critically ill patients.
A) Delay or postpone
B) Simplify and reduce
C) Speed up or accelerate
D) Complicate and hinder

102. The anesthesiologist explained the potential risks of the sedation to the patient before the procedure.
A) Guaranteed and certain
B) Possible or likely to happen
C) Minor and insignificant
D) Unrelated and irrelevant

103. The nursing student was diligent in reviewing her notes before the comprehensive final exam.
A) Lazy and uninterested
B) Careless and distracted
C) Hardworking and persistent
D) Nervous and anxious

104. The patient's reaction to the contrast dye was unforeseen, prompting an immediate emergency response.
A) Predicted and expected
B) Preventable and avoidable
C) Not anticipated or unexpected
D) Mild and easily managed

105. The occupational therapist focused on helping the patient regain autonomy in daily living activities.
A) Dependence on others
B) Strength and power
C) Independence and self-governance
D) Flexibility and range of motion

ATI TEAS English Answer Key with Short Reasons (Questions 1–20)

1.      C) is
Reason: Subject is team (singular).

2.      D) was
Reason: Each is singular.

3.      C) is
Reason: Verb agrees with the nearer subject charge nurse (singular).

4.      B) is
Reason: Subject is pile (singular).

5.      C) is required
Reason: Every one is singular.

6.      D) is
Reason: Subject is surgeon (singular).

7.      A) are
Reason: Verb agrees with the nearer subject interns (plural).

8.      A) are
Reason: Data is treated as plural on the TEAS.

9.      C) is
Reason: Each is singular.

10. C) is
Reason: Subject is group (singular).

11. B) his or her
Reason: Anyone is singular.

12. A) it
Reason: Hospital board is a singular entity.

13. B) his or her
Reason: Neither is singular.

14. D) themselves
Reason: Staff refers to multiple people acting together.

15. C) him or her
Reason: Patient is singular.

16. B) his
Reason: Subject is medical director (masculine in this sentence).

17. B) his or her
Reason: Everyone is singular.

18. A) he or she
Reason: Technician is singular.

19. A) its
Reason: Department takes the possessive pronoun its.

20. C) he or she
Reason: Any staff member is singular.

21. 21. C) had
Reason: Action happened before the ambulance arrived (past perfect).

22. 22. C) had been ongoing
Reason: Trial continued before the results were published.

23. 23. C) is changing
Reason: Right now indicates present continuous.

24. 24. C) created
Reason: Last week requires simple past tense.

25. 25. D) will have upgraded
Reason: By next January indicates future perfect.

26. 26. A) draws
Reason: Habitual action; use simple present.

27. 27. C) had forgotten
Reason: Forgetting happened before she realized it.

28. 28. B) was making
Reason: Ongoing action interrupted by another past action.

29. 29. D) was preparing
Reason: Action was in progress when the fire alarm went off.

30. 30. C) has performed
Reason: So far this week requires present perfect.

31. 31. B) The patient’s oxygen saturation dropped dangerously low; the respiratory therapist initiated immediate ventilation.
Reason: Semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses.

32. 32. B) The physical therapist recommended a new exercise routine for the post-surgical patient; she also suggested aquatic therapy.
Reason: Semicolon joins two complete sentences.

33. 33. C) The emergency department was overcrowded with non-urgent cases; the staff struggled to maintain efficient triage.
Reason: Two closely related independent clauses.

34. 34. C) The medication was supposed to lower blood pressure; instead, it caused a severe allergic reaction.
Reason: Semicolon + transitional word (instead) is correct.

35. 35. C) The lab results indicated a possible infection; the physician ordered a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Reason: Semicolon correctly fixes the run-on sentence.

36. 36. D) The pharmacist reviewed the dosage calculations thoroughly.
Reason: Complete sentence with subject, verb, and complete thought.

37. 37. D) The palliative care team met with the family this morning.
Reason: Complete independent sentence.

38. 38. C) The dietary aide delivered the breakfast trays to all the rooms.
Reason: Complete sentence.

39. 39. D) The discharge planner coordinated the home health services.
Reason: Complete sentence.

40. 40. C) The occupational therapist taught the patient adaptive techniques.
Reason: Complete sentence.

41. 41. B) Having completed the complex surgery, the nurses prepared the recovery room for the patient.
Reason: The introductory modifier correctly refers to the nurses, not the recovery room.

42. 42. A) To administer the IV medication correctly, the nurse programmed the infusion pump.
Reason: The modifier correctly describes the nurse.

43. 43. B) Exhausted from the twelve-hour shift, the nurse updated the patient's chart before leaving.
Reason: The modifier refers to the nurse, not the chart.

44. 44. B) Walking through the busy emergency room, the orderly moved the stretcher out of the way.
Reason: The modifier correctly refers to the orderly.

45. 45. A) To properly assess the patient's neurological status, the nurse used the penlight to check pupil response.
Reason: The nurse performs the action, not the penlight.

46. 46. B) effect; affect
Reason: Effect = noun (result); affect = verb (influence).

47. 47. B) their
Reason: Their shows possession.

48. 48. C) They're
Reason: They're = They are.

49. 49. D) at
Reason: The retractor is placed at the incision site.

50. 50. A) there
Reason: There are is the correct expression.

51. 51. B) too
Reason: Too means excessively.

52. 52. B) you're
Reason: You're = you are.

53. 53. D) its
Reason: Administration is singular; its is the correct possessive.

54. 54. B) affect
Reason: Affect is the verb meaning "to influence."

55. 55. B) their
Reason: Their shows possession.

56. 56. A) there
Reason: There was introduces the existence of something.

57. 57. A) its
Reason: Its is the possessive form of it.

58. 58. A) to
Reason: To expresses purpose (to ensure).

59. 59. A) is
Reason: Subject chief is singular.

60. 60. B) Separate
Reason: This is the correct spelling.

61. 61. A) Occasion
Reason: This is the correct spelling.

62. 62. C) Privilege
Reason: Correct spelling; the others are misspelled.

63. 63. B) Maintenance
Reason: Correct spelling.

64. 64. B) Prescription
Reason: Correct spelling.

65. 65. A) Embarrass
Reason: Correct spelling (double r, double s).

66. 66. C) The cardiology department scheduled the stress test for Tuesday morning.
Reason: Only Tuesday (day of the week) is capitalized.

67. 67. D) The doctor informed the patient that Dr. Adams would perform the surgery on Friday.
Reason: Dr. Adams and Friday are properly capitalized.

68. 68. B) The nursing supervisor said, "Please complete the incident report before you leave."
Reason: The first word inside quotation marks is capitalized.

69. 69. D) The hospital will host a seminar on diabetes management in the spring.
Reason: Common nouns and spring are not capitalized.

70. 70. A) The patient was referred to the oncology clinic by Dr. Chen.
Reason: Dr. Chen is a proper title and name; oncology clinic is a common noun.

71. 71. A) points: medication schedule, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
Reason: A colon introduces a list.

72. 72. C) supplies: gauze, tape, gloves, and alcohol wipes.
Reason: A colon correctly introduces the list.

73. 73. B) patient's vital signs were stable, but the nurse continued to monitor them closely.
Reason: Singular possessive patient's and comma before but.

74. 74. B) hospital's new policy
Reason: Singular possessive requires 's.

75. 75. B) patient's chart; physician's order sheet
Reason: Both singular possessive nouns need 's.

76. 76. C) Although
Reason: Shows contrast.

77. 77. C) and
Reason: Connects two related actions.

78. 78. A) Although
Reason: Shows contrast between normal lab results and ordering more tests.

79. 79. B) so that
Reason: Expresses purpose.

80. 80. A) Although
Reason: Shows contrast between clear instructions and follow-up calls.

81. 81. B) Ambiguous or uncertain
Reason: Equivocal means unclear or open to more than one interpretation.

82. 82. C) Not recommended or prohibited
Reason: Contraindicated means a treatment should not be used because it may be harmful.

83. 83. C) Confirmed or supported
Reason: Corroborated means verified or backed up by evidence.

84. 84. C) Deliberate action or treatment
Reason: Intervention means action taken to improve a situation.

85. 85. B) Delicate and weak
Reason: Tenuous means weak, slight, or fragile.

86. 86. C) Temporary
Reason: Transient means lasting only a short time.

87. 87. B) Extremely careful and precise
Reason: Meticulous means showing great attention to detail.

88. 88. C) Disjointed and unintelligible
Reason: Incoherent means unclear or impossible to understand.

89. 89. B) Strict and rigorous
Reason: Stringent means very strict.

90. 90. C) Supplemental or additional
Reason: Adjunctive means used together with the primary treatment.

91. 91. B) Reduced or weakened
Reason: Diminished means decreased or lessened.

92. 92. B) Easy to understand and use
Reason: Intuitive means easy to learn or operate naturally.

93. 93. C) Intimidating and overwhelming
Reason: Daunting means difficult enough to discourage or intimidate.

94. 94. B) Wise and carefully considered
Reason: Judicious means showing good judgment.

95. 95. B) Extremely infectious and severe
Reason: Virulent means highly harmful or infectious.

96. 96. B) Anxious and fearful
Reason: Apprehensive means worried or anxious.

97. 97. A) Noticeable and significant
Reason: Marked means obvious or substantial.

98. 98. B) Weakened or thinned out
Reason: Diluted means made less concentrated.

99. 99. C) Kind and empathetic
Reason: Compassionate means showing kindness and concern for others.

100.                     100. C) Weakened or damaged
Reason: Impaired means reduced in function or ability.

101.                     101. C) Speed up or accelerate
Reason: Expedite means to make a process happen faster.

102.                     102. B) Possible or likely to happen
Reason: Potential means possible, though not certain.

103.                     103. C) Hardworking and persistent
Reason: Diligent means careful, hardworking, and consistent.

104.                     104. C) Not anticipated or unexpected
Reason: Unforeseen means not expected beforehand.

105.                     105. C) Independence and self-governance
Reason: Autonomy means the ability to act independently and make one's own decisions.