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

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 covers 8 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.

======

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.

======

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.

======

The passage emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene in preventing infection. It clearly states that washing hands with soap and water removes harmful microorganisms and that sanitizers can reduce germs when soap is unavailable. This supports the conclusion that handwashing helps reduce the spread of infection. Option C directly reflects this main idea. Option A is incorrect because the passage notes that sanitizers are not effective against all pathogens. Option B contradicts the passage, which presents soap and water as the most effective method. Option D is false because the passage acknowledges that germs can exist on hands. On the NEX exam, supported-detail questions require selecting an answer that accurately restates information from the passage without exaggeration or contradiction.

======

“Reluctant” describes someone who is unwilling or hesitant to act. Option C best matches this meaning. The other options suggest eagerness or readiness, which are opposites. Context clues on the NEX often rely on emotional tone.

======

The passage clearly states that older adults are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. Option C is directly supported. The other groups are not mentioned. NEX detail questions reward careful reading and selecting information explicitly stated in the passage.

======

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 is a ratio and proportion problem. The given ratio is 5 grams of acid for every 3 liters of water. First determine how many groups of 3 liters are in 24 liters: 24 ÷ 3 = 8. Each group requires 5 grams of acid, so multiply: 8 × 5 = 40 grams. Therefore, option C is correct. Option D results from dividing instead of multiplying. Option B is excessively large and unrealistic. Ratio problems on the NEX require identifying the scaling factor before multiplying.

This is a basic linear equation involving variables on both sides. Begin by moving all x terms to one side and constants to the other. Subtract 2x from both sides:

x + 4 = −1.

Next, subtract 4 from both sides:

x = −5.

Therefore, option C is correct. Option D would be correct only if the constant were mishandled. The NEX frequently includes straightforward algebra problems like this to assess understanding of balancing equations and using inverse operations correctly.

======

The passage clearly states that documentation ensures continuity of care by allowing healthcare providers to understand patient history and make informed decisions. Option B directly reflects this purpose. The passage does not claim that documentation replaces care, eliminates all errors, or reduces workload. NEX passages often emphasize communication and record-keeping as foundational healthcare skills, making continuity of care a key concept.

======

To maintain something means to keep it at the same level or preserve it. Option C is correct. Understanding everyday academic vocabulary is critical for the NEX verbal section.

======

The passage clearly states that reducing smoking rates lowers the incidence of heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke. These are chronic diseases, making option C the correct answer. The other options are either not mentioned or incorrect. On the NEX exam, cause-and-effect reading questions require identifying outcomes that are directly linked to actions described in the passage. Choosing the most clearly stated effect is essential.

======

“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.

======

The passage states that lack of sleep weakens immune function and increases susceptibility to illness. This supports the conclusion that adequate sleep supports immune health. Option C accurately reflects this relationship. Options A and D contradict the passage, while option B exaggerates the effect. NEX questions often test the ability to infer logical conclusions without overgeneralizing.

======

This question asks for the main idea , which is the central message of the passage. The passage discusses several roles of water in the body, including temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste removal. It also highlights the effects of dehydration and the importance of monitoring fluid intake, particularly in older adults. All these details support one central idea: hydration is vital for maintaining overall health and proper body function. Option C correctly summarizes this main point. Option A is incorrect because the passage actually suggests older adults are at increased risk of dehydration. Option B contradicts the passage, which emphasizes water’s importance. Option D is incorrect because the passage notes that thirst may decrease with age and is not the only indicator. On the NEX exam, main-idea questions often require recognizing repeated themes across the passage rather than focusing on one detail.

======

To implement means to put a plan or decision into action. Option B is the correct synonym. This word is frequently used in healthcare policies and procedures.

======

The passage specifically mentions weight-bearing activities as being important for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. Walking is a weight-bearing exercise because the bones must support the body’s weight during movement. Option C is therefore correct. The passage does not mention stretching, swimming, or meditation. While swimming is good for cardiovascular health, it is not weight-bearing. On the NEX exam, detail questions often require recognizing examples given directly in the passage rather than applying outside knowledge. Selecting walking demonstrates accurate reading and attention to detail.

======

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.

======

The passage highlights the value of regular checkups and preventive care in identifying conditions early. It explains that early detection allows for more effective treatment and better long-term outcomes. Option B captures this key idea. Options A and D contradict the passage, and option C introduces a concept not discussed. Summary questions on the NEX test whether the reader can condense the passage into its most essential message.

======

Monitor means to watch, observe, or check regularly. Option A best matches this meaning. Monitoring is a common healthcare term.

======

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.

======

The passage explicitly states that physical therapy helps patients regain strength and mobility. Option C is directly supported. The other options introduce claims not made in the passage. On the NEX exam, direct-statement questions require selecting information that is clearly mentioned, not inferred.

======

This problem requires comparing fractions, percentages, and decimals by converting them to the same form. Convert each score to a decimal. Student A: 19 ÷ 26 ≈ 0.731. Student B: 75 ÷ 100 = 0.75. Student C: 71% = 0.71. Student D: already given as 0.719. Comparing these values, 0.75 is the highest. Therefore, Student B scored the highest. Option D (0.719) is close but still lower than 0.75. The NEX frequently tests comparison skills across different numerical formats, so converting everything to decimals is the safest approach.

======

This question assesses understanding of the median, which is the middle value when data are ordered from least to greatest. First, list the refunds in ascending order:

$500, $500, $857, $1,500, $2,500, $3,000, $6,753.

There are seven values total, so the median is the fourth value in the ordered list. The fourth value is $1,500. Therefore, option D is correct. Option B represents the mode (most frequent value), not the median. Options A and C are averages or midpoints that do not correspond to the true median position. On the NEX exam, students are frequently tested on distinguishing mean, median, and mode, so remembering that the median is strictly positional—not calculated—is essential.

======

This question tests unit conversion and rate calculation, both of which are essential skills on the NEX Math Section, especially for medication and IV flow problems. First, convert liters to milliliters because flow rates are typically expressed in milliliters per hour. Since 1 liter equals 1,000 milliliters, multiply 0.75 liters by 1,000 to get 750 milliliters. Next, determine the flow rate by dividing the total volume by the total time. The fluid is administered over 3 hours, so divide 750 milliliters by 3 hours. This calculation gives 250 milliliters per hour. Therefore, the correct answer is option C. Option A results from dividing incorrectly, option B reflects underestimation, and option D would be correct only if the volume were larger. NEX exam questions often focus on proper setup of unit conversions before performing calculations. Always convert units first, then divide by time to find a rate.

======

This is a linear growth problem involving rates. Let t represent the number of weeks. Infant A’s weight is represented by 5 + 4t, and Infant B’s weight is represented by 11 + 2t. Set the expressions equal to find when their weights match:

5 + 4t = 11 + 2t.

Subtract 2t from both sides:

5 + 2t = 11.

Subtract 5 from both sides:

2t = 6.

Divide by 2:

t = 3 weeks.

Therefore, option C is correct. NEX word problems often involve setting up equations from real-life healthcare scenarios, so identifying starting values and growth rates is essential.

======

This problem evaluates understanding of percentages and total quantities, commonly tested on the NEX exam. First, calculate the total number of gloves available. Multiply the number of boxes by the number of gloves per box: 18 × 120 = 2,160 gloves total. Next, determine how many gloves were used. Since 25% were used, convert 25% to a decimal (0.25) and multiply by the total number of gloves: 0.25 × 2,160 = 540 gloves used. To find how many gloves remain, subtract the number used from the total: 2,160 − 540 = 1,620 gloves remaining. Therefore, option A is correct. Option C represents the original total, not the remainder. Option D reflects incorrect subtraction, and option B results from miscalculating the percentage used. On the NEX Math Section, it is critical to identify whether the question asks for the amount used or the amount remaining before selecting an answer.

This is a multi-step dosage and unit-conversion problem. Each bottle contains 120 mL, and the infant drinks half a bottle per feeding. Half of 120 mL is 60 mL. The infant has 6 feedings, so total intake is 60 × 6 = 360 mL. Convert milliliters to ounces using the given conversion: 360 ÷ 30 = 12 ounces. Therefore, option C is correct. Option D represents milliliters, not ounces. Option B incorrectly doubles the intake. The NEX frequently includes pediatric feeding and medication scenarios requiring careful tracking of totals and unit conversions.

======

This is a multi-step word problem involving mixed numbers and total subtraction, commonly seen on the NEX. First calculate Nurse A’s total hours: . Multiply by 5 days: hours. Next, calculate Nurse B’s total hours: . Multiply by 4 days: hours. Now add the hours worked by Nurses A and B:

41.25 + 42 = 83.25 hours (or ).

Subtract this from the total combined hours:

130 − 83.25 = 46.75 hours.

Convert 0.75 to a fraction: .

So Nurse C worked hours, making option D correct. The NEX often tests accurate step-by-step calculation with workplace scenarios.

======

This problem tests metric-to-customary unit conversion with rounding, a common skill on the NEX exam. To convert centimeters to inches, divide the number of centimeters by 2.54. Set up the calculation: 5.6 ÷ 2.54. Performing the division gives approximately 2.20 inches. However, reviewing the answer choices, this reveals a potential trick: the correct division actually gives 2.2 inches, which would normally match option C, but option A (1.4 in) is based on halving a common incorrect step. Rechecking carefully: 5.6 ÷ 2.54 ≈ 2.2 , so option C is the mathematically correct answer.

✅ Correct Answer: C (2.2 in)

On the NEX exam, always trust dimensional analysis and calculator results rather than estimating too early. Rounding should only occur after completing the conversion.

======

This problem tests understanding of integer subtraction, especially with negative numbers. On the number line, −3 is already below zero. Subtracting 7 means moving seven more units to the left. Starting at −3 and moving left seven spaces results in −10. Another way to think about this is to rewrite the problem as adding a negative number: −3 − 7 is the same as −3 + (−7). When adding two negative numbers, you add their absolute values and keep the negative sign. The absolute values of −3 and −7 are 3 and 7, and 3 + 7 = 10, so the result is −10. Option A is therefore correct. Option B is a common mistake when students subtract absolute values incorrectly. Options C and D are positive and would only occur if the signs were misunderstood. The NEX Math Section frequently includes integer operations to assess number sense and sign awareness.

This question tests your ability to convert between decimals and fractions, a very common skill on the NEX Math Section. Start by understanding the decimal value. The decimal 0.04 means four hundredths, which can be written as the fraction 4/100. The next step is to simplify this fraction by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common factor, which is 2. Doing so gives 2/50. That fraction exactly matches option C, making it the correct answer. To verify, you can also convert 2/50 back into a decimal by dividing 2 by 50, which equals 0.04. The other options are incorrect because they represent much larger values. For example, 1/4 equals 0.25, 2/5 equals 0.4, and 2/500 equals 0.004. On the NEX exam, remembering that two decimal places correspond to hundredths can help you quickly form the correct fraction before simplifying.

======

This question tests calculation of the mean. First, add all the infant weights:

8.5 + 11 + 7 + 5 + 7 + 4.5 + 9 + 8 = 60 pounds.

Next, divide the total by the number of infants: 60 ÷ 8 = 7.5? Recheck carefully: 60 ÷ 8 = 7.5, but reviewing the answer choices and recalculating the sum more carefully:

8.5 + 11 = 19.5

19.5 + 7 = 26.5

26.5 + 5 = 31.5

31.5 + 7 = 38.5

38.5 + 4.5 = 43

43 + 9 = 52

52 + 8 = 60

60 ÷ 8 = 7.5, which corresponds to option C.

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.

======

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.

======

A mutation is a random change in the DNA sequence of an organism. Mutations can occur due to errors during DNA replication, exposure to radiation, or chemical agents. These changes may have no effect (silent mutations), cause harm (negative mutations), or provide an advantage (positive mutations). Recombination refers to the exchange of genetic material during meiosis, not random DNA changes. Duplication involves copying a segment of DNA, and replication is the normal process of copying DNA before cell division. The NEX Science exam often emphasizes that mutations are a source of genetic variation and can influence evolution and disease. Understanding the different possible effects of mutations is essential for topics related to genetics, cancer biology, and inheritance.

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 the ability to analyze and compare data presented in a bar graph. The graph shows both cigarette usage and nicotine vaping for total populations and underage populations in two different years. When focusing on the underage population, the bars for nicotine vaping are clearly higher than those for cigarette usage in both years shown. This indicates that vaping is more prevalent than cigarette smoking among underage individuals. The graph does not show an increase in total cigarette usage, eliminating option B. While vaping is high overall, the clearest and most directly supported conclusion is specific to the underage population. The NEX Science exam frequently includes questions requiring students to identify the most accurate conclusion supported by data rather than making assumptions beyond what is shown. Therefore, option A is the best answer.

======

Healthcare inequity occurs when certain groups receive fewer resources or lower-quality care than others. Filtering water for only one segment of a community creates unequal access to a basic health necessity, increasing health risks for those excluded. The other options promote fairness and equal access to care. The NEX Science exam often evaluates understanding of social determinants of health and ethical principles, making option C the clearest example of inequity.

======

This question tests understanding of predator–prey relationships, a key ecology concept on the NEX Science exam. Wolves are the natural predators of moose on Isle Royale. When the moose population was initially high, there was an abundant food supply for wolves. This allowed the wolf population to increase significantly. As the number of wolves increased, predation pressure on the moose population also increased, leading to a sharp decline in moose numbers. This inverse relationship between predator and prey populations is a classic ecological pattern. There is no evidence in the question to suggest disease, human hunting, or breeding rate differences as the primary cause. Instead, the changes in population sizes are best explained by increased predation. The NEX often assesses whether students can interpret real-world ecological data and recognize how population dynamics are influenced by natural predator–prey interactions.

======

Extension is the movement that increases the angle between two bones at a joint. When the arm straightens at the elbow, the angle between the radius and the humerus increases, which is extension. Flexion decreases the angle between bones, circumduction is a circular movement, and retraction refers to pulling a structure backward. Understanding anatomical movement terms is essential for the NEX Science exam, especially in questions related to joints and motion.

======

Water is a polar molecule because it has an unequal distribution of electrical charge, with a slightly negative oxygen atom and slightly positive hydrogen atoms. This polarity causes water molecules to attract one another through hydrogen bonding. Option C demonstrates this property because water molecules stick together (cohesion) and do not mix with nonpolar substances like oil. Oil molecules lack polarity and cannot form hydrogen bonds with water, so the two substances separate into layers. The other options describe physical movement, gravity, or resistance, none of which are direct results of polarity. The NEX Science exam frequently tests molecular properties such as polarity by connecting them to real-world examples like oil and water separation. Recognizing hydrogen bonding and cohesion as outcomes of water’s polarity is essential for answering these questions correctly.

Hepatitis C is a bloodborne virus that is most commonly transmitted through direct blood-to-blood contact. Sharing needles allows contaminated blood to enter another person’s bloodstream, making it the primary mode of transmission. Hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact such as touching skin, coughing, or sharing drinks. Understanding transmission routes is essential for infection prevention and public health, and the NEX Science exam frequently emphasizes distinguishing between airborne, contact, and bloodborne diseases. Because hepatitis C spreads primarily through shared needles, option D is correct.

======