NEX Nursing Entrance Exam (Math, Science and Verbal) Questions and Answers

Temporary refers to something lasting for a short period of time. Option B correctly reflects this meaning. Recognizing time-related descriptors is common on the NEX exam.

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The passage distinguishes between short-term and chronic stress. While short-term stress may increase alertness, chronic stress is associated with negative health effects. One of the effects specifically mentioned is increased blood pressure. Option C is therefore correct. Options A and D describe benefits not associated with chronic stress in the passage. Option B is incorrect because the passage states that chronic stress weakens, rather than strengthens, the immune system. The NEX exam often includes questions that test the ability to identify contrasting ideas within a passage, such as short-term versus long-term effects.

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The passage discusses both causes of falls in older adults and strategies to prevent them. Option B accurately summarizes this purpose. The other options focus on details not emphasized. Purpose questions on the NEX often involve identifying both the problem and the proposed solution.

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The passage discusses several strategies that help improve time management, including creating schedules, prioritizing tasks, and setting realistic goals. Option B directly reflects one of these strategies. The other options contradict or ignore the recommendations in the passage. Avoiding deadlines and working without schedules would worsen time management, and studying without breaks is not mentioned. On the NEX exam, reading comprehension questions often focus on identifying practical strategies or recommendations explicitly stated in the passage. Selecting prioritizing tasks demonstrates accurate understanding of the author’s suggestions.

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Persistent describes something that continues over time without stopping. Option B is the best synonym. NEX often tests duration-related vocabulary.

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The correct answer must be directly supported by the information in the passage. The passage clearly explains that sleep helps the brain process and store information, which is essential for memory consolidation. It also states that lack of sleep negatively affects cognitive abilities such as judgment and reaction time. Therefore, the conclusion that memory formation is affected by sleep is well supported. Option A is incorrect because the passage emphasizes mental and cognitive effects, not just physical health. Option C is directly contradicted by the passage’s mention of impaired functioning due to lack of sleep. Option D exaggerates the information; while sleep affects academic performance, the passage does not claim it is the sole factor. On the NEX exam, supported-conclusion questions require selecting an answer that is neither too extreme nor unsupported by the passage.

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Controlled experiments allow researchers to isolate one variable and observe its effects while keeping other factors constant. This makes it possible to determine cause-and-effect relationships. Option C correctly reflects this purpose. The other options misrepresent the role of experiments. On the NEX exam, scientific reading passages often focus on basic research principles and reasoning.

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“Assist” means to help or support. Option B is the correct synonym. The remaining options describe actions that oppose assistance. NEX verbal questions frequently use healthcare-related vocabulary like assist, administer, and support.

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“Essential” means absolutely necessary or vital. Option C is the correct synonym. The other options are opposites or unrelated. Essential is a high-frequency NEX word, especially in health and science contexts.

“Decline” can mean either to refuse or to decrease. Option C captures both meanings. The other options are opposites or unrelated. Understanding multiple meanings of common words is important for the NEX verbal section.

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Minimize means to reduce something to the smallest amount possible. Option C is the correct synonym. Understanding reduction-related vocabulary is important for NEX verbal success.

Adequate means enough to meet a need or requirement. Option C correctly matches the meaning. This word is commonly used in healthcare contexts such as adequate nutrition or adequate hydration.

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A precaution is an action taken to prevent harm or reduce risk. Option C best matches this meaning. NEX questions frequently use safety-related vocabulary.

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“Initial” refers to the first stage or beginning of something. Option B best matches this definition. NEX questions frequently test sequencing vocabulary.

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Stable describes something that is steady, consistent, or not changing. Option C best reflects this meaning. NEX exams frequently use stability-related vocabulary in clinical scenarios.

Significant means important or meaningful. Option B is correct. Recognizing emphasis words is essential on the NEX.

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This question tests understanding of the law of superposition, a fundamental principle in geology that is frequently tested on the NEX Science exam. The law of superposition states that in undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are found at the bottom, while the youngest layers are found at the top. In the table shown, the soil surface is at the top, followed by Fossil D, Fossil C, Fossil B, and Fossil A at the bottom. Because Fossil A is located in the lowest rock layer, it must be the oldest fossil. Fossils found in higher layers were deposited more recently. The key word in the question is “undisturbed,” which means the layers have not been mixed or overturned by geological processes. The NEX exam often emphasizes recognizing this clue to correctly apply the law of superposition. Therefore, Fossil A is the correct answer because it represents the earliest life form preserved in the rock strata.

Stage A in the diagram represents fertilization, where a sperm cell fuses with an egg to form a zygote. In humans, fertilization normally occurs in the fallopian tube, not in the uterus or vagina. After fertilization, the zygote undergoes cell division as it travels toward the uterus for implantation. The ovary produces and releases the egg but is not the site of fertilization. The NEX Science exam commonly tests understanding of reproductive anatomy and sequence of events in human development. Correctly identifying the fallopian tube as the site of fertilization is essential for understanding pregnancy, contraception, and reproductive health.

This question tests measurement interpretation using an ocular micrometer, a skill often assessed on the NEX Science exam. An ocular micrometer is a scale placed in the eyepiece of a microscope and must be interpreted based on the given scale value. In this problem, each division equals 25 micrometers. By carefully counting the number of divisions spanned by the oval in the image, the oval covers8 divisions. To find the total length, the number of divisions is multiplied by the micrometer value per division: 8 × 25 micrometers = 200 micrometers. The other answer choices represent common calculation errors, such as counting too few or too many divisions or using an incorrect multiplication factor. The key to these questions is slow, accurate counting and correct unit conversion. The NEX exam frequently includes microscopy-based questions to assess practical lab interpretation skills.

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Veins contain one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward as it returns to the heart. These valves are especially important in veins of the arms and legs, where blood must move against gravity. When muscles contract, they push blood forward toward the heart, and the valves close behind it to prevent backflow. Without these valves, blood could pool in the veins, leading to conditions such as varicose veins. The valves do not obstruct blood flow under normal conditions, nor do they prevent blood from leaking into surrounding tissues—that function is related to capillary walls. The NEX Science exam often emphasizes understanding how anatomical structures support physiological function, making venous valves a key cardiovascular concept.

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Hyperextension refers to movement at a joint that goes beyond the normal anatomical position in the sagittal plane, specifically in a posterior direction. For example, bending the head backward farther than upright posture is considered hyperextension. Option B correctly describes this movement. Option A describes abduction, which occurs in the frontal plane. Option C describes flexion, which is anterior movement. Option D describes extension back to anatomical position, not beyond it. The NEX Science exam frequently tests anatomical terminology related to joint movement, and understanding directional planes (sagittal, frontal, transverse) is essential. Hyperextension differs from extension because it exceeds the normal range of motion, which can increase injury risk.

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Mitochondria are responsible for cellular respiration, which occurs in both plant and animal cells. Chloroplasts carry out photosynthesis and are found only in plant cells. Therefore, only plants can perform photosynthesis, while both plants and animals can perform cellular respiration. This distinction is a core concept in cell biology and is frequently tested on the NEX Science exam.

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The cartilage found in the rib cage, specifically connecting the ribs to the sternum, is hyaline cartilage. Hyaline cartilage provides both strength and flexibility, allowing the rib cage to expand and contract during breathing. Fibrocartilage is found in areas requiring shock absorption, such as intervertebral discs. Elastic cartilage provides flexibility and is found in structures like the ear and epiglottis. Bone is not a type of cartilage. The NEX Science exam often tests knowledge of cartilage types and their locations, making hyaline cartilage the correct answer for the rib cage.

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Region 4 in the diagram corresponds to the large intestine. The primary function of the large intestine is the absorption of water and electrolytes from undigested food material. This process helps concentrate waste material into feces before elimination. Assimilation of fatty acids and synthesis of triglycerides occur primarily in the small intestine, especially within intestinal epithelial cells. Hydrolysis of proteins occurs mainly in the stomach and small intestine through the action of enzymes such as pepsin and proteases. The NEX Science exam often tests digestive system function by matching specific organs to their primary processes. Since water absorption is the defining function of the large intestine, option B is correct.

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This question requires interpreting data from a table, a common skill tested on the NEX Science exam. Looking specifically at the column for toddlers, the amino acid with the highest listed requirement (measured in milligrams per kilogram of body mass per day) is leucine. Although lysine, valine, and phenylalanine with tyrosine are also required in significant amounts, leucine has the highest numerical value for toddlers. Leucine is an essential amino acid that plays a critical role in growth, tissue repair, and muscle protein synthesis, which are especially important during early childhood when rapid growth occurs. Because toddlers are in a phase of accelerated development, higher amounts of certain amino acids are required compared to adults. The key to answering this question correctly is careful comparison of the numerical values within the toddler column, not overall trends across all age groups.

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Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid. To neutralize an acid, a base must be added. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong base that reacts with HCl to form water and a salt (sodium chloride). This neutralization reaction reduces the acidity of the solution. The other options—HNO₃, CH₃COOH, and H₂SO₄—are all acids and would increase acidity rather than neutralize it. The NEX Science exam often tests acid–base chemistry and emphasizes recognizing common acids and bases. Since NaOH is the only base listed, option C is correct.

The ball-and-socket joint of the upper extremity is the shoulder joint. This joint is formed by the head of the humerus (the ball) fitting into the glenoid cavity of the scapula (the socket). This structure allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. The ribs do not participate in this joint, and the clavicle connects the scapula to the sternum but does not form the ball-and-socket articulation. Understanding joint structure and function is important for anatomy questions on the NEX Science exam. The shoulder joint’s design allows greater mobility than stability, which explains why shoulder dislocations are relatively common.

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Rods and cones are specialized photoreceptor cells responsible for vision. These cells are located in the retina, the innermost layer of the eye. The retina contains multiple layers of cells that convert light energy into electrical impulses, which are then transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve. Rods are highly sensitive to light and are essential for vision in dim conditions, while cones are responsible for color vision and sharp visual detail. The cornea and lens help focus light but do not detect it. The optic nerve transmits signals but does not contain photoreceptors. The NEX Science exam frequently tests eye anatomy and sensory physiology, especially the relationship between structure and function. Correctly identifying the retina as the location of rods and cones is essential for understanding how visual perception occurs.

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A pathogen is any microorganism that causes disease in a host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions and are not microorganisms. Immune factors are components of the immune system that protect against disease. A vector is an organism, such as a mosquito or tick, that transmits pathogens but does not itself cause disease. The NEX Science exam commonly assesses understanding of infectious disease terminology and distinctions between disease-causing organisms and disease carriers. Recognizing pathogens as the direct cause of illness is a key concept in microbiology and public health.

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This question assesses fraction-to-percent conversion. Start by converting the fractionto a decimal. Divide 5 by 8:

5 ÷ 8 = 0.625.

To convert a decimal to a percent, multiply by 100:

0.625 × 100 = 62.5%.

Therefore, the correct answer is C. The other options represent incorrect conversions: 37.5% equals, 22.5% is not a standard eighth fraction, and 40% equals. On the NEX exam, knowing common fraction-percent equivalents (such as 1/8 = 12.5%) can significantly reduce calculation time and improve accuracy.

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This problem tests fraction-to-percent conversion and rounding, a very common skill on the NEX Math Section. First, simplify the fraction if possible. The fraction 3/15 can be reduced by dividing both the numerator and denominator by 3. This gives 1/5. Simplifying first makes the calculation easier and reduces the chance of errors. Next, convert the fraction to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator: 1 ÷ 5 = 0.2. To convert a decimal to a percent, multiply by 100. Thus, 0.2 × 100 = 20.0%. The question asks for the answer rounded to the nearest tenth place. Since 20.0 already has one decimal place, no additional rounding is needed. Therefore, the correct answer is 20.0%, which corresponds to option A. Option B (0.2%) incorrectly leaves the value as a decimal percent. Option C (5.0%) is a common mistake from dividing 3 by 60. Option D (33.3%) would be correct for 1/3, not 3/15.

This question tests weighted averages. Because the sample sizes are different, you cannot simply average the mean heights. Instead, multiply each sample mean by its sample size, add the results, and divide by the total number of children.

Total children = 20 + 20 + 25 + 70 + 20 = 155

Total height = (20×95) + (20×100) + (25×100) + (70×110) + (20×105)

= 1,900 + 2,000 + 2,500 + 7,700 + 2,100

= 16,200

Mean height = 16,200 ÷ 155 ≈ 104.5 cm

Therefore, option A is correct. The NEX exam frequently tests understanding that larger samples should carry more weight when calculating population estimates.

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This question assesses interpretation of a statistical graph and understanding of the mean (average). The mean height represents the weighted average of all data points across the three classrooms. From the plotted distributions, the center of mass of the combined data lies just under 172 cm. Option D, 171.9 cm, most accurately represents the mean height shown by the data. Option A (170.0) is too low, option C (175.0) is too high, and option B (17.0) is clearly incorrect due to unit misinterpretation. On the NEX exam, graph-based questions often test estimation and interpretation rather than exact calculation, especially when raw data values are not individually listed. The correct approach is to identify the overall balance point of the distribution.

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This question combines fractions of time and military time. One full day is 24 hours. One-third of a day equals 24 ÷ 3 = 8 hours. Add 8 hours to 9:15 a.m. Doing so results in 5:15 p.m. In military time, p.m. hours are converted by adding 12 to the hour: 5:15 p.m. becomes 17:15. Therefore, option A is correct. Option C would represent noon, and option D is early morning. The NEX often tests time interpretation, so remembering that military time does not use “a.m.” or “p.m.” is critical.

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This problem involves currency conversion. The exchange rate states that $1 equals €1.2. To convert euros to dollars, divide the euro amount by 1.2. Set up the calculation: €120 ÷ 1.2 = $100. Therefore, the cost per night in US dollars is $100. Option C is correct. Option B incorrectly multiplies instead of dividing. Options A and D fail to account for the exchange rate. NEX math problems involving currency emphasize understanding the direction of conversion and selecting the correct operation.

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This problem tests area formulas and fraction application. First calculate the full area of the rectangle using the given formula: Area = length × width. Multiply 4 cm by 6 cm to get 24 cm². The question asks for one-half of the area, not the total area. Divide 24 by 2: 24 ÷ 2 = 12 cm². Therefore, option B is correct. Option C is the full area, not half. Option A results from subtracting instead of dividing. Option D represents an incorrect partial calculation. NEX geometry questions often require careful reading to determine whether the question asks for total area or a fraction of it.

This problem tests data interpretation and inference. The graphs show different patterns for each client. Some clients clearly show a decrease in systolic blood pressure after starting the medication, while others show little change or variability. Because not all clients show a decrease, options C and D are incorrect. Option B suggests increased variability, which is not consistently supported across all graphs. Option A accurately summarizes the data by stating thatsomeclients experienced a decrease. On the NEX exam, inference questions often require cautious conclusions rather than absolute statements. Words like “some” and “tended to” are important clues to correct answers.

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This is a unit-conversion problem involving yards, feet, and inches. First, convert yards to feet. Since 1 yard equals 3 feet, multiply: 2.5 × 3 = 7.5 feet. Next, convert feet to inches using the given conversion of 12 inches per foot. Multiply: 7.5 × 12 = 90 inches. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Option A (72 inches) represents only 6 feet. Option B (45 inches) results from converting yards directly to inches incorrectly. Option D (54 inches) represents 4.5 feet. On the NEX exam, multi-step measurement conversions are common, and accuracy depends on converting one unit at a time rather than skipping steps.

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This is a proportional reasoning problem. If 4 people require 1.5 cups of flour, then doubling the number of people to 8 means doubling the amount of flour. Multiply 1.5 by 2:

1.5 × 2 = 3 cups.

Therefore, option D is correct. Option A is the original amount, not scaled. Option B greatly overestimates the amount. Option C results from incorrect multiplication. The NEX frequently includes scaling problems related to recipes, dosages, and supplies, so identifying when to multiply or divide is essential.

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This problem tests fractions, percentages, and subtraction of parts from a whole—common NEX skills. First calculate the amount spent on decorations:

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8

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of $500 equals $62.50. Next calculate the food cost: 25% is equivalent to 0.25, and 0.25 × 500 = $125. Add these two expenses together: $62.50 + $125 = $187.50. This represents the portion of the budget already allocated. To find the remaining budget for venue and entertainment, subtract this amount from the total budget: $500 − $187.50 = $312.50. Therefore, option A is correct. Option B assumes only one category was subtracted. Option C results from incorrect fraction conversion. Option D represents the amount already spent, not the remainder. NEX questions often require careful step-by-step subtraction after converting fractions and percentages correctly.

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This question tests percent decrease, a common NEX topic. First find the amount of decrease: 50 mg − 40 mg = 10 mg. Next divide the decrease by the original amount:

10 ÷ 50 = 0.2.

Convert the decimal to a percent by multiplying by 100:

0.2 × 100 = 20%.

Therefore, the correct answer is B. Option D represents the numerical decrease without considering the original value. Option A and C result from incorrect division. On the NEX exam, percent change problems always use the original value as the denominator.

This question tests understanding of standard deviation as a measure of variability. The group with thesmalleststandard deviation has the least variability. Comparing the values, Group 3 has the smallest SD at 6.9. Therefore, option D is correct. The mean does not affect variability; only the SD matters in this comparison. The NEX often includes questions where students must interpret statistical summaries rather than perform calculations. Remember that lower SD values indicate data points are more closely clustered around the mean.

This problem tests unit rate reasoning and multiplication. Each 20-minute episode uses 0.3 GB. First, determine how many 20-minute episodes can fit into 9 GB. Divide total space by space per episode: 9 ÷ 0.3 = 30 episodes. Next, convert episodes to minutes. Each episode is 20 minutes, so multiply: 30 × 20 = 600 minutes. Therefore, the maximum number of minutes that can be downloaded is 600 minutes, making option D correct. Option A (500 minutes) is close but incorrect. Options B and C underestimate the capacity. NEX questions like this often require identifying a “per unit” relationship first (GB per episode), then scaling to the total allowed amount. Paying attention to the phrase “at most” ensures you calculate the maximum possible value without exceeding the limit.

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