ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7English and Language UsageEasy
A nursing student is preparing a presentation on patient handoff. They write, 'The patient's condition rapidly deteriorated, and consequently, the physician ordered immediate intervention.' Which of the following best describes the function of the word 'consequently' in this sentence?
- AIt adds supplementary information.
- BIt indicates a sequence of events over time.
- CIt signals a cause-and-effect relationship.
- DIt introduces a contrasting idea.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. It signals a cause-and-effect relationship.
'Consequently' is a conjunctive adverb that demonstrates a result or outcome, directly linking the deterioration of the patient's condition to the physician's order for intervention. This establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Words like 'additionally' or 'furthermore' add supplementary information.
- B. Words like 'then' or 'next' indicate a sequence of events over time.
- D. Words like 'however' or 'nevertheless' introduce contrasting ideas.
Conjunctive Adverb
A conjunctive adverb connects two independent clauses and shows the relationship between them.
- They modify the verb, adjective, or other adverb in the independent clause.
- They are typically preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma.
- They express relationships such as cause/effect, contrast, sequence, or addition.
Memory trick: Conjunctions Link Results and Sequences