Select the meaning of the word 'tenuous' in the sentence: 'Patients in this wing often have a tenuous hold on reality.'

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this context, the word 'tenuous' is used to describe a weak or delicate hold on reality. 'Fragile' is the correct choice as it conveys the idea of something being easily broken or damaged, which aligns with the meaning of 'tenuous' in the sentence. Choice A, 'Judicious,' means having good judgment, which is unrelated to the context. Choice B, 'Deleted,' means removed or erased, which is not synonymous with 'tenuous.' Choice C, 'Frantic,' means panicked or desperate, which does not capture the delicate or weak nature implied by 'tenuous.'

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: D

Rationale: A vertiginous patient is dizzy. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can be caused by various underlying medical conditions affecting the inner ear or brain. So, a vertiginous patient would be experiencing dizziness. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the condition of vertigo.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dormant. Latent and dormant are synonymous and refer to something existing but not currently active or evident. Choice A, 'Flagrant,' means something that is conspicuously offensive, blatant, or glaring, which is the opposite of latent. Choice C, 'Deceased,' means no longer alive, which is unrelated to latent. Choice D, 'Postponed,' means to delay or reschedule to a later time, which is not synonymous with latent.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'undulate' means to move in a smooth, wave-like motion. An undulation of muscles is a subtle, continuous rippling or rolling movement, making 'ripple' the most appropriate synonym in this sentence. 'Shake' (Choice B) is incorrect as it implies a more abrupt and irregular movement. 'Flatten' (Choice C) and 'Unknot' (Choice D) are unrelated to the smooth, wave-like motion described in the sentence.