Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A strident alarm is loud, harsh, and piercing. The word 'shrill' specifically denotes a high-pitched and piercing sound, which aligns well with the characteristics of a strident alarm. Therefore, 'shrill' is the most suitable answer in this context. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a strident alarm is not quiet (muted), unchanging (constant), or deep and full (resonant), but rather loud and harsh.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: To aspirate fluid, you would typically use a syringe. A syringe is a device consisting of a tube and a plunger, which allows you to draw fluids such as blood or medication into the tube by pulling back on the plunger. This action is called aspiration, and the syringe is a common tool for this purpose in various medical procedures. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not typically used for aspiration procedures. A beaker is a glass container used for holding liquids, a test tube is used for holding or mixing small quantities of substances, and a flange is a projecting rim or edge used for strength or for attaching to another object.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The term 'cathartic' is best described as therapeutic because it refers to something that provides emotional release or purification. It helps in relieving emotional tension, which is a therapeutic benefit. 'Infested' means being invaded by pests, 'Fatiguing' means causing tiredness or exhaustion, and 'Supplementing' means adding to or enhancing something, none of which accurately describe the term 'cathartic.'

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A "nostrum" is a term used to describe a questionable or untested remedy or medication that claims to cure ailments. In this context, as a remedy is suggested to cure certain ailments, "nostrum" fits best in providing an alternative word that aligns with the situation. The other choices are not synonyms for a remedy that cures ailments. 'Inoculation' refers to the introduction of a vaccine, 'indicator' is something that provides information or signals, and 'serum' is a component of blood or a medication, none of which directly align with the concept of a remedy curing ailments.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The abbreviation HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus, which is a viral infection commonly transmitted through sexual contact. It is known to cause genital warts and various types of cancers, including cervical cancer. Choice A is incorrect because HPV is not related to a blood condition. Choice C is incorrect because HPV does not refer to heart rate. Choice D is incorrect as HPV is not a therapy but rather a virus.