Nursing Entrance Exams Test Easy (2019)
Optimize your certification prep with Nursing Entrance Exams Test Easy (2019), a practice test that mimics real-world exam difficulty.
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About the Authors
Maryanne Baudo is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), an Advanced
Nurse Practitioner, and full-time College Professor in the Nursing
Department at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey.
She earned a Diploma in Nursing from St. Vincent’s Hospital, School
of Nursing; a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing from William
Paterson University; and a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice also from
William Paterson University. She has five children and six grandchildren
and lives in southern New Jersey with her husband.
Robin Kavanagh is a writer, marketing communications expert, and
former professor of English and communication studies. She is the
co-author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the ASVAB; The Complete Idiot’s
Guide to the ASVAB; and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Nursing Entrance
Exams; and the author of Vocabulous You! An Interactive Guide to Building
Vocabulary for Standardized Tests, College, On the Job and Everyday Life.
She is also a former test-prep instructor for the SAT, GRE, and GMAT
exams. Robin has a BA in communications and an MA in English, both
from William Paterson University. She lives in South Carolina.
Maryanne Baudo is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), an Advanced
Nurse Practitioner, and full-time College Professor in the Nursing
Department at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey.
She earned a Diploma in Nursing from St. Vincent’s Hospital, School
of Nursing; a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing from William
Paterson University; and a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice also from
William Paterson University. She has five children and six grandchildren
and lives in southern New Jersey with her husband.
Robin Kavanagh is a writer, marketing communications expert, and
former professor of English and communication studies. She is the
co-author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the ASVAB; The Complete Idiot’s
Guide to the ASVAB; and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Nursing Entrance
Exams; and the author of Vocabulous You! An Interactive Guide to Building
Vocabulary for Standardized Tests, College, On the Job and Everyday Life.
She is also a former test-prep instructor for the SAT, GRE, and GMAT
exams. Robin has a BA in communications and an MA in English, both
from William Paterson University. She lives in South Carolina.
About the Authors
Maryanne Baudo is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), an Advanced
Nurse Practitioner, and full-time College Professor in the Nursing
Department at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey.
She earned a Diploma in Nursing from St. Vincent’s Hospital, School
of Nursing; a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing from William
Paterson University; and a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice also from
William Paterson University. She has five children and six grandchildren
and lives in southern New Jersey with her husband.
Robin Kavanagh is a writer, marketing communications expert, and
former professor of English and communication studies. She is the
co-author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the ASVAB; The Complete Idiot’s
Guide to the ASVAB; and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Nursing Entrance
Exams; and the author of Vocabulous You! An Interactive Guide to Building
Vocabulary for Standardized Tests, College, On the Job and Everyday Life.
She is also a former test-prep instructor for the SAT, GRE, and GMAT
exams. Robin has a BA in communications and an MA in English, both
from William Paterson University. She lives in South Carolina.
Maryanne Baudo is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), an Advanced
Nurse Practitioner, and full-time College Professor in the Nursing
Department at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey.
She earned a Diploma in Nursing from St. Vincent’s Hospital, School
of Nursing; a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing from William
Paterson University; and a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice also from
William Paterson University. She has five children and six grandchildren
and lives in southern New Jersey with her husband.
Robin Kavanagh is a writer, marketing communications expert, and
former professor of English and communication studies. She is the
co-author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the ASVAB; The Complete Idiot’s
Guide to the ASVAB; and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Nursing Entrance
Exams; and the author of Vocabulous You! An Interactive Guide to Building
Vocabulary for Standardized Tests, College, On the Job and Everyday Life.
She is also a former test-prep instructor for the SAT, GRE, and GMAT
exams. Robin has a BA in communications and an MA in English, both
from William Paterson University. She lives in South Carolina.
A member of Penguin Random House LLC
By Dr. Maryanne Baudo DNP, NP-C, MSN, RN, and Robin Kavanagh, MA
Illustrated by Kara LaFrance
NURSING
Entrance Exams
By Dr. Maryanne Baudo DNP, NP-C, MSN, RN, and Robin Kavanagh, MA
Illustrated by Kara LaFrance
NURSING
Entrance Exams
Publisher: Mike Sanders
Senior Acquisitions Editor: Janette Lynn
Cover Designer: William Thomas
Book Designer/Layout: Ayanna Lacey
Copy Editor: Monica Stone
Indexer: Celia McCoy
Proofreader: Laura Caddell
To my husband and my family for their constant support of my career and my every endeavor.
—Maryanne Baudo
To my loved ones who are nurses and share both their hearts and knowledge to help people heal
daily. Also, to my family, who has always been behind me in this crazy journey of life.
—Robin Kavanagh
Published by Penguin Random House LLC
001-309803-MAR2019.
Copyright © 2019 by Maryanne Baudo and Robin Kavanagh
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any
printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy
of copyrighted materials in violation of the authors’ rights. Purchase only authorized editions.
No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher and
authors assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of information contained herein. For information, address
Alpha Books, 6081 E. 82nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46250.
International Standard Book Number: 978-1-465647-349-3
Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 2018958034
21 20 19 5 4 3 2 1
Interpretation of the printing code: The rightmost number of the first series of numbers is the
year of the book’s printing; the rightmost number of the second series of numbers is the num-
ber of the book’s printing. For example, a printing code of 19-1 shows that the first printing
occurred in 2019.
Printed in the United States of America
Note: This publication contains the opinions and ideas of its authors. It is intended to provide
helpful and informative material on the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understand-
ing that the authors and publisher are not engaged in rendering professional services in the
book. If the reader requires personal assistance or advice, a competent professional should be
consulted. The authors and publisher specifically disclaim any responsibility for any liability,
loss, or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly,
of the use and application of any of the contents of this book.
Most Alpha books are available at special quantity discounts for bulk purchases for sales
promotions, premiums, fund-raising, or educational use. Special books, or book excerpts,
can also be created to fit specific needs. For details, write: Special Markets, Alpha Books, 345
Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014.
Trademarks: All terms mentioned in this book that are known to be or are suspected of being
trademarks or service marks have been appropriately capitalized. Alpha Books and Penguin
Random House LLC cannot attest to the accuracy of this information. Use of a term in this book
should not be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark.
Reprinted from The Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Nursing Entrance Exams
Senior Acquisitions Editor: Janette Lynn
Cover Designer: William Thomas
Book Designer/Layout: Ayanna Lacey
Copy Editor: Monica Stone
Indexer: Celia McCoy
Proofreader: Laura Caddell
To my husband and my family for their constant support of my career and my every endeavor.
—Maryanne Baudo
To my loved ones who are nurses and share both their hearts and knowledge to help people heal
daily. Also, to my family, who has always been behind me in this crazy journey of life.
—Robin Kavanagh
Published by Penguin Random House LLC
001-309803-MAR2019.
Copyright © 2019 by Maryanne Baudo and Robin Kavanagh
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any
printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy
of copyrighted materials in violation of the authors’ rights. Purchase only authorized editions.
No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher and
authors assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of information contained herein. For information, address
Alpha Books, 6081 E. 82nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46250.
International Standard Book Number: 978-1-465647-349-3
Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 2018958034
21 20 19 5 4 3 2 1
Interpretation of the printing code: The rightmost number of the first series of numbers is the
year of the book’s printing; the rightmost number of the second series of numbers is the num-
ber of the book’s printing. For example, a printing code of 19-1 shows that the first printing
occurred in 2019.
Printed in the United States of America
Note: This publication contains the opinions and ideas of its authors. It is intended to provide
helpful and informative material on the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understand-
ing that the authors and publisher are not engaged in rendering professional services in the
book. If the reader requires personal assistance or advice, a competent professional should be
consulted. The authors and publisher specifically disclaim any responsibility for any liability,
loss, or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly,
of the use and application of any of the contents of this book.
Most Alpha books are available at special quantity discounts for bulk purchases for sales
promotions, premiums, fund-raising, or educational use. Special books, or book excerpts,
can also be created to fit specific needs. For details, write: Special Markets, Alpha Books, 345
Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014.
Trademarks: All terms mentioned in this book that are known to be or are suspected of being
trademarks or service marks have been appropriately capitalized. Alpha Books and Penguin
Random House LLC cannot attest to the accuracy of this information. Use of a term in this book
should not be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark.
Reprinted from The Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Nursing Entrance Exams
Contents
Part 1: Decision Diagnosis...............................1
1 So, You Want to Be a Nurse? ...................................3
The Many Faces of Nursing ............................................ 3
Registered Nurse ..........................................4
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed
Vocational Nurse ........................................5
Advanced Practice Nurses ............................................. 5
Nurse Practitioners ......................................6
Clinical Nurse Specialists ............................6
Nurse-Midwives............................................6
Nurse Anesthetists .......................................6
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners ......................7
Nurse Educator .............................................7
Education Options ........................................................... 7
BSN ................................................................7
ADN/AAS ......................................................8
Diploma .........................................................8
Admissions ...................................................................... 8
Licensure ........................................................................10
2 Tests You Need to Make the Grade ........................11
Many Paths to the Same Career ...................................11
National League for Nursing Pre-Admission
Exam (NLN PAX) .......................................................12
Scoring.........................................................13
NLN PAX Vital Stats ..................................13
Health Education Systems Exam (HESI) A 2 ..................13
Scoring.........................................................15
HESI A 2 Vital Stats .....................................16
ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (ATI TEAS) ......16
Scoring.........................................................17
ATI TEAS Vital Stats ..................................18
Psychological Services Bureau Registered
Nursing School Aptitude Exam ...............................18
Scoring.........................................................18
PSB Vital Stats ............................................19
Types of Administration ................................................19
Paper-Based Tests (PBTs) ..........................19
Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) .................. 20
How to Use This Info ..................................................... 22
3 Positive Test Results—Stat!...................................23
Practice Tests and Planning Strategies...................... 23
Aim High .................................................... 24
Play to Your Weaknesses .......................... 24
Rethink Your General Approach ................................... 24
Read Carefully ............................................25
Speak for Yourself ......................................25
Find the “Best” Answer ............................. 26
Use Process of Elimination—Every
Time .......................................................... 26
The Guessing Game ...................................................... 26
Test-Specific Strategies ............................................... 28
Practice Makes Perfect ................................................ 29
Timing Is Everything................................. 29
Study Strategically .................................... 30
Study Smart ............................................... 30
Final Preparations......................................................... 31
The Week of the Test ...................................31
The Day of the Test .....................................31
After the Test ...............................................32
Part 1: Decision Diagnosis...............................1
1 So, You Want to Be a Nurse? ...................................3
The Many Faces of Nursing ............................................ 3
Registered Nurse ..........................................4
Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed
Vocational Nurse ........................................5
Advanced Practice Nurses ............................................. 5
Nurse Practitioners ......................................6
Clinical Nurse Specialists ............................6
Nurse-Midwives............................................6
Nurse Anesthetists .......................................6
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners ......................7
Nurse Educator .............................................7
Education Options ........................................................... 7
BSN ................................................................7
ADN/AAS ......................................................8
Diploma .........................................................8
Admissions ...................................................................... 8
Licensure ........................................................................10
2 Tests You Need to Make the Grade ........................11
Many Paths to the Same Career ...................................11
National League for Nursing Pre-Admission
Exam (NLN PAX) .......................................................12
Scoring.........................................................13
NLN PAX Vital Stats ..................................13
Health Education Systems Exam (HESI) A 2 ..................13
Scoring.........................................................15
HESI A 2 Vital Stats .....................................16
ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (ATI TEAS) ......16
Scoring.........................................................17
ATI TEAS Vital Stats ..................................18
Psychological Services Bureau Registered
Nursing School Aptitude Exam ...............................18
Scoring.........................................................18
PSB Vital Stats ............................................19
Types of Administration ................................................19
Paper-Based Tests (PBTs) ..........................19
Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) .................. 20
How to Use This Info ..................................................... 22
3 Positive Test Results—Stat!...................................23
Practice Tests and Planning Strategies...................... 23
Aim High .................................................... 24
Play to Your Weaknesses .......................... 24
Rethink Your General Approach ................................... 24
Read Carefully ............................................25
Speak for Yourself ......................................25
Find the “Best” Answer ............................. 26
Use Process of Elimination—Every
Time .......................................................... 26
The Guessing Game ...................................................... 26
Test-Specific Strategies ............................................... 28
Practice Makes Perfect ................................................ 29
Timing Is Everything................................. 29
Study Strategically .................................... 30
Study Smart ............................................... 30
Final Preparations......................................................... 31
The Week of the Test ...................................31
The Day of the Test .....................................31
After the Test ...............................................32
Loading page 6...
iv Nursing Entrance Exams
Part 2: Say It Right: Verbal Review ...............33
4 Grammar: It’s How You Say It................................35
What to Expect .............................................................. 35
Parts of Speech ............................................................. 37
Nouns ..........................................................37
Pronouns .................................................... 38
Verbs ........................................................... 38
Adjectives ....................................................39
Adverbs....................................................... 40
Prepositions ............................................... 40
Common Errors.............................................................. 40
Subject/Verb Agreement ........................... 42
Ambiguous Pronoun ................................. 43
Misplaced Modifier.................................... 43
Commas in Compound Sentences ............ 44
Run-On Sentences ..................................... 44
Fragments .................................................. 44
Preposition Placement .............................. 45
Spelling .......................................................................... 45
Commonly Confused Words ......................................... 45
5 Mark Your Words....................................................53
What to Expect .............................................................. 53
Synonym and Antonym Questions............................... 54
Get to the Root of the Problem .................. 54
What’s the Connotation?........................... 56
Determine Part of Speech ......................... 56
Words in Context and Sentence Completion .............. 57
Look for Clues .............................................57
Swap It Out ................................................ 58
Analogies ....................................................................... 59
Build Your Vocabulary .................................................. 59
Word of the Day ......................................... 60
Hit the Books .............................................. 60
Memorize in Clusters ................................ 60
Learn Your Roots ....................................... 60
Make Associations ..................................... 62
6 Read, Comprehend, Conquer .................................67
What to Expect .............................................................. 67
Main Idea........................................................................ 69
Purpose .......................................................................... 69
Tone ................................................................................ 70
Specific Details ............................................................. 71
Vocab in Context ........................................................... 72
Inference Questions ...................................................... 73
Fact or Opinion ...............................................................74
Paragraph Breakdown ...................................................74
Part 3: Math Matters ......................................83
7 Basic Arithmetic ....................................................85
What to Expect .............................................................. 85
Arithmetic Review ......................................................... 87
Order of Operations....................................................... 88
Positive and Negative Integers.................................... 88
Multiples and Factors ................................................... 89
Prime Factorization................................... 89
Greatest Common Factor (GCF) ............... 90
Least Common Multiple (LCM) ................ 90
Fractions ........................................................................ 90
Simplification .............................................91
Addition .......................................................91
Subtraction..................................................92
Multiplication .............................................92
Division .......................................................92
Decimals ........................................................................ 92
Addition and Subtraction ..........................93
Multiplication .............................................93
Division .......................................................93
Converting Decimals to Fractions .............93
Rounding ........................................................................ 94
Percent ........................................................................... 94
Part 2: Say It Right: Verbal Review ...............33
4 Grammar: It’s How You Say It................................35
What to Expect .............................................................. 35
Parts of Speech ............................................................. 37
Nouns ..........................................................37
Pronouns .................................................... 38
Verbs ........................................................... 38
Adjectives ....................................................39
Adverbs....................................................... 40
Prepositions ............................................... 40
Common Errors.............................................................. 40
Subject/Verb Agreement ........................... 42
Ambiguous Pronoun ................................. 43
Misplaced Modifier.................................... 43
Commas in Compound Sentences ............ 44
Run-On Sentences ..................................... 44
Fragments .................................................. 44
Preposition Placement .............................. 45
Spelling .......................................................................... 45
Commonly Confused Words ......................................... 45
5 Mark Your Words....................................................53
What to Expect .............................................................. 53
Synonym and Antonym Questions............................... 54
Get to the Root of the Problem .................. 54
What’s the Connotation?........................... 56
Determine Part of Speech ......................... 56
Words in Context and Sentence Completion .............. 57
Look for Clues .............................................57
Swap It Out ................................................ 58
Analogies ....................................................................... 59
Build Your Vocabulary .................................................. 59
Word of the Day ......................................... 60
Hit the Books .............................................. 60
Memorize in Clusters ................................ 60
Learn Your Roots ....................................... 60
Make Associations ..................................... 62
6 Read, Comprehend, Conquer .................................67
What to Expect .............................................................. 67
Main Idea........................................................................ 69
Purpose .......................................................................... 69
Tone ................................................................................ 70
Specific Details ............................................................. 71
Vocab in Context ........................................................... 72
Inference Questions ...................................................... 73
Fact or Opinion ...............................................................74
Paragraph Breakdown ...................................................74
Part 3: Math Matters ......................................83
7 Basic Arithmetic ....................................................85
What to Expect .............................................................. 85
Arithmetic Review ......................................................... 87
Order of Operations....................................................... 88
Positive and Negative Integers.................................... 88
Multiples and Factors ................................................... 89
Prime Factorization................................... 89
Greatest Common Factor (GCF) ............... 90
Least Common Multiple (LCM) ................ 90
Fractions ........................................................................ 90
Simplification .............................................91
Addition .......................................................91
Subtraction..................................................92
Multiplication .............................................92
Division .......................................................92
Decimals ........................................................................ 92
Addition and Subtraction ..........................93
Multiplication .............................................93
Division .......................................................93
Converting Decimals to Fractions .............93
Rounding ........................................................................ 94
Percent ........................................................................... 94
Loading page 7...
Contents v
Ecology ......................................................131
Evolution ...................................................133
Earth Science Review ................................................. 133
The Earth ................................................. 134
Rocks......................................................... 134
Atmosphere ...............................................135
The Moon and Stars .................................136
10 Bio Basics ..........................................................143
What to Expect .......................................................... 143
What’s in a Cell?........................................................ 145
Moving In and Out of a Cell...................................... 147
Diffusion ...................................................147
Osmosis .....................................................147
Cellular Respiration.................................................. 148
Cellular Reproduction .............................................. 149
Mitosis: Asexual Reproduction................149
Meiosis: Sexual Reproduction .................151
Genetics ..................................................................... 153
DNA ...........................................................153
Mendel ...................................................... 154
11 Anatomy and Physiology Check-Up ..................161
What to Expect ...........................................................161
Basic Terminology .................................................... 162
Circulatory System ................................................... 163
Blood ..........................................................163
Heart......................................................... 164
Blood Vessels............................................ 164
Path of Blood .............................................166
Respiratory System ...................................................167
Upper Respiratory System .......................167
Lower Respiratory System .......................167
Path of Air .................................................168
Nervous System ........................................................ 168
Central Nervous System...........................169
Peripheral Nervous System .....................170
Ratios ............................................................................. 94
Proportions .................................................................... 95
Rates .............................................................................. 95
Averages, Median, and Mode ....................................... 95
U.S. and Metric Measurements .................................... 96
Graphs, Charts, and Tables .......................................... 97
Bar Graph ...................................................97
Line Graphs ................................................97
Pie Chart .................................................... 98
8 Algebra and Geometry.........................................103
What to Expect ............................................................ 103
Steps for Panic-Free Success .................. 104
Algebra Review............................................................ 105
Equations ................................................. 105
Inequalities .............................................. 106
Exponents..................................................107
Roots ..........................................................107
Polynomials.............................................. 108
Simple Polynomial Factoring ................. 109
Quadratic Expressions .............................110
Geometry Review .........................................................111
Lines ..........................................................111
Angles ........................................................112
Triangles ...................................................112
Quadrilaterals ..........................................115
Circles ........................................................116
Solid Figures and Volume ........................117
Part 4: Scientific Method .............................123
9 Science of Life .....................................................125
What to Expect ............................................................ 125
Life Science Review .................................................... 126
Cells .......................................................... 126
Taxonomy ................................................. 128
Plants........................................................ 129
Ecology ......................................................131
Evolution ...................................................133
Earth Science Review ................................................. 133
The Earth ................................................. 134
Rocks......................................................... 134
Atmosphere ...............................................135
The Moon and Stars .................................136
10 Bio Basics ..........................................................143
What to Expect .......................................................... 143
What’s in a Cell?........................................................ 145
Moving In and Out of a Cell...................................... 147
Diffusion ...................................................147
Osmosis .....................................................147
Cellular Respiration.................................................. 148
Cellular Reproduction .............................................. 149
Mitosis: Asexual Reproduction................149
Meiosis: Sexual Reproduction .................151
Genetics ..................................................................... 153
DNA ...........................................................153
Mendel ...................................................... 154
11 Anatomy and Physiology Check-Up ..................161
What to Expect ...........................................................161
Basic Terminology .................................................... 162
Circulatory System ................................................... 163
Blood ..........................................................163
Heart......................................................... 164
Blood Vessels............................................ 164
Path of Blood .............................................166
Respiratory System ...................................................167
Upper Respiratory System .......................167
Lower Respiratory System .......................167
Path of Air .................................................168
Nervous System ........................................................ 168
Central Nervous System...........................169
Peripheral Nervous System .....................170
Ratios ............................................................................. 94
Proportions .................................................................... 95
Rates .............................................................................. 95
Averages, Median, and Mode ....................................... 95
U.S. and Metric Measurements .................................... 96
Graphs, Charts, and Tables .......................................... 97
Bar Graph ...................................................97
Line Graphs ................................................97
Pie Chart .................................................... 98
8 Algebra and Geometry.........................................103
What to Expect ............................................................ 103
Steps for Panic-Free Success .................. 104
Algebra Review............................................................ 105
Equations ................................................. 105
Inequalities .............................................. 106
Exponents..................................................107
Roots ..........................................................107
Polynomials.............................................. 108
Simple Polynomial Factoring ................. 109
Quadratic Expressions .............................110
Geometry Review .........................................................111
Lines ..........................................................111
Angles ........................................................112
Triangles ...................................................112
Quadrilaterals ..........................................115
Circles ........................................................116
Solid Figures and Volume ........................117
Part 4: Scientific Method .............................123
9 Science of Life .....................................................125
What to Expect ............................................................ 125
Life Science Review .................................................... 126
Cells .......................................................... 126
Taxonomy ................................................. 128
Plants........................................................ 129
Loading page 8...
Endocrine System ..................................................... 171
Digestive System ...................................................... 173
Upper GI Tract ..........................................173
Lower GI Tract ..........................................174
Urinary System ......................................................... 175
Reproductive System.................................................176
Male ...........................................................176
Female .......................................................177
Muscular System ...................................................... 178
Skeletal System ........................................................ 179
12 The Right Chemistry ..........................................185
What to Expect .......................................................... 185
Matter......................................................................... 187
Breakdown of Matter ...............................187
Conversion of Matter ............................... 188
Composition of Matter ............................ 189
Density ..................................................... 189
Atoms ......................................................................... 190
Subatomic Particles................................. 190
Working with Subatomic Particles..........191
Elements .................................................................... 192
The Periodic Table ....................................193
Compounds ................................................................ 196
Molecular Mass ........................................196
Moles .........................................................196
Bonds .........................................................197
Reactions ................................................................... 198
Reaction Rates ..........................................199
Balancing Equations ............................... 200
Stoichiometry ........................................... 201
Solutions .................................................................... 202
Determining Concentration.................... 202
Dilutions, Emulsifications, and
Tinctures ................................................ 202
Acids and Bases ....................................... 202
Scientific Notation .................................................... 203
13 Let’s Get Physical ..............................................207
What to Expect .......................................................... 207
Weight and Mass ....................................................... 208
Energy and Work ....................................................... 209
Potential Energy ...................................... 209
Kinetic Energy ..........................................210
Work, Work, Work ....................................210
Motion .........................................................................211
Newton’s First Law ...................................211
Newton’s Second Law ...............................211
Newton’s Third Law .................................211
Speed .........................................................212
Acceleration ..............................................212
Thermodynamics .......................................................212
Pressure ....................................................213
Temperature..............................................213
It’s Electric! ............................................................... 214
Voltage and Ohm’s Law ...........................215
Circuits ......................................................215
Waves ........................................................216
Frequency ..................................................217
Types of Waves .........................................217
How Waves Move ......................................217
Nuclear Physics ........................................................ 218
Part 5: Strength Training: Test Your Skills ..223
Practice Test 1 .....................................................225
Practice Test 1: Answers and Explanations........271
Practice Test 2 .....................................................297
Practice Test 2: Answers and Explanations........345
Resources ............................................................371
Index ....................................................................381
Digestive System ...................................................... 173
Upper GI Tract ..........................................173
Lower GI Tract ..........................................174
Urinary System ......................................................... 175
Reproductive System.................................................176
Male ...........................................................176
Female .......................................................177
Muscular System ...................................................... 178
Skeletal System ........................................................ 179
12 The Right Chemistry ..........................................185
What to Expect .......................................................... 185
Matter......................................................................... 187
Breakdown of Matter ...............................187
Conversion of Matter ............................... 188
Composition of Matter ............................ 189
Density ..................................................... 189
Atoms ......................................................................... 190
Subatomic Particles................................. 190
Working with Subatomic Particles..........191
Elements .................................................................... 192
The Periodic Table ....................................193
Compounds ................................................................ 196
Molecular Mass ........................................196
Moles .........................................................196
Bonds .........................................................197
Reactions ................................................................... 198
Reaction Rates ..........................................199
Balancing Equations ............................... 200
Stoichiometry ........................................... 201
Solutions .................................................................... 202
Determining Concentration.................... 202
Dilutions, Emulsifications, and
Tinctures ................................................ 202
Acids and Bases ....................................... 202
Scientific Notation .................................................... 203
13 Let’s Get Physical ..............................................207
What to Expect .......................................................... 207
Weight and Mass ....................................................... 208
Energy and Work ....................................................... 209
Potential Energy ...................................... 209
Kinetic Energy ..........................................210
Work, Work, Work ....................................210
Motion .........................................................................211
Newton’s First Law ...................................211
Newton’s Second Law ...............................211
Newton’s Third Law .................................211
Speed .........................................................212
Acceleration ..............................................212
Thermodynamics .......................................................212
Pressure ....................................................213
Temperature..............................................213
It’s Electric! ............................................................... 214
Voltage and Ohm’s Law ...........................215
Circuits ......................................................215
Waves ........................................................216
Frequency ..................................................217
Types of Waves .........................................217
How Waves Move ......................................217
Nuclear Physics ........................................................ 218
Part 5: Strength Training: Test Your Skills ..223
Practice Test 1 .....................................................225
Practice Test 1: Answers and Explanations........271
Practice Test 2 .....................................................297
Practice Test 2: Answers and Explanations........345
Resources ............................................................371
Index ....................................................................381
Loading page 9...
Introduction
“I want to be a nurse when I grow up!” This phrase is uttered by countless children every
day and for good reason. Nursing is a noble profession that is not only personally fulfilling
but is also one of the fastest-growing health-care specializations in the country.
According to 2018 projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational
Outlook Handbook, employment opportunities for registered nurses is expected to increase
15 percent by 2026, particularly in long-term care facilities, outpatient care centers, and
home-based care. This growth is estimated to be much faster than average, when compared
with other professions. And with a current median salary of $70,000 a year, or $33.65 per
hour, now is a great time to consider nursing school.
But deciding to become a nurse is only the first step you need to take in the journey to reach
your goal. Another step may be passing a standardized entrance examination. There are
currently a handful of exams that most two-year and four-year schools require as part of
a nursing program admission. These can vary from semester to semester, as well as from
school to school.
We offer this book as a general guide to help you decide which program is right for you
and prepare you for the various exams that are used to determine eligibility for nursing
school programs. Within the pages that follow, you’ll find reviews in the disciplines that are
most frequently tested, tons of practice questions to help strengthen your knowledge, and
test-taking tips that will help you get through any kind of standardized exam.
You may not agree with all of our advice, and some of what we have to say may not
work for you as an individual. That’s okay. No piece of advice is right for every person.
We encourage you to make your test-prep experience your own and pursue whatever
works best for you.
When you’re using this book, keep in mind that we are giving advice based on our extensive
research and personal experience with this subject. The information we provide is the most
current that we can offer as of the date that this book was written, and we have made every
effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.
When in doubt, though, communicate with the program or programs you’re applying to in
order to get the best advice and information relevant to your goals. They are your first and
best source for guidance.
How to Use This Book
Everyone has their own learning style and academic strengths. When you’re preparing for
tests like those for nursing school entrance, you need to play to those strengths and focus on
improving in the areas that are challenging you.
Purchasing this book is a great way to start preparing for your exam. We’ve tried to make
reading and using this book as easy for you as possible. We break down all of the informa-
tion you need into five main sections, so you can pick and choose what you want to read and
when.
“I want to be a nurse when I grow up!” This phrase is uttered by countless children every
day and for good reason. Nursing is a noble profession that is not only personally fulfilling
but is also one of the fastest-growing health-care specializations in the country.
According to 2018 projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational
Outlook Handbook, employment opportunities for registered nurses is expected to increase
15 percent by 2026, particularly in long-term care facilities, outpatient care centers, and
home-based care. This growth is estimated to be much faster than average, when compared
with other professions. And with a current median salary of $70,000 a year, or $33.65 per
hour, now is a great time to consider nursing school.
But deciding to become a nurse is only the first step you need to take in the journey to reach
your goal. Another step may be passing a standardized entrance examination. There are
currently a handful of exams that most two-year and four-year schools require as part of
a nursing program admission. These can vary from semester to semester, as well as from
school to school.
We offer this book as a general guide to help you decide which program is right for you
and prepare you for the various exams that are used to determine eligibility for nursing
school programs. Within the pages that follow, you’ll find reviews in the disciplines that are
most frequently tested, tons of practice questions to help strengthen your knowledge, and
test-taking tips that will help you get through any kind of standardized exam.
You may not agree with all of our advice, and some of what we have to say may not
work for you as an individual. That’s okay. No piece of advice is right for every person.
We encourage you to make your test-prep experience your own and pursue whatever
works best for you.
When you’re using this book, keep in mind that we are giving advice based on our extensive
research and personal experience with this subject. The information we provide is the most
current that we can offer as of the date that this book was written, and we have made every
effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.
When in doubt, though, communicate with the program or programs you’re applying to in
order to get the best advice and information relevant to your goals. They are your first and
best source for guidance.
How to Use This Book
Everyone has their own learning style and academic strengths. When you’re preparing for
tests like those for nursing school entrance, you need to play to those strengths and focus on
improving in the areas that are challenging you.
Purchasing this book is a great way to start preparing for your exam. We’ve tried to make
reading and using this book as easy for you as possible. We break down all of the informa-
tion you need into five main sections, so you can pick and choose what you want to read and
when.
Loading page 10...
Part 1, Decision Diagnosis, describes the many different types of nursing careers. It shows
you how the path you choose affects which exams you’ll take, the most commonly used
exams, what to expect, and how to prepare for and take your test.
Part 2, Say It Right: Verbal Review, discusses reading, writing, vocabulary, spelling, and
grammar—all skills that nursing school entrance exams want to assess in potential students.
We walk you through the different skills that are tested and provide review and practice that
will help you understand and apply these concepts.
Part 3, Math Matters, shows you why mathematics is an extremely important skill for
nurses to master and why all of the nursing school entrance exams include at least one math
section. This part will help you brush up on your basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry in
preparation for any of these exams.
Part 4, Scientific Method, provides a comprehensive review of earth and life sciences, biol-
ogy, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and physics concepts to help you through the
scientific sections of your test. Be sure to check out the practice questions at the end of each
chapter to test yourself on what you learned.
Part 5, Strength Training: Test Your Skills, gives you a chance to challenge yourself with
two sample tests featuring the types of questions often seen on the different types of nursing
school entrance exams. We also give you detailed answers and explanations to help you
practice your skills and learn from your mistakes.
If you’re still thirsty for more, check out the info-packed Resources appendix, which includes
a listing of the Boards of Nursing for all 50 states and U.S. territories, a list of professional
nursing associations, books, and websites.
Extras
Because we can all use a little extra help, we’ve also included some sidebars with useful
information to help speed you through your studies:
viii Nursing Entrance Exams
NURSING NOTES
These are interesting tidbits about the test, nursing,
and other related areas to help you keep things in
perspective and increase your understanding of the
material.
][ ][
DEFINITION
These are explanations of terms used throughout the
book to help you gain a deeper understanding of ideas
and concepts.
][ ][ CODE RED!
Make sure to pay attention to these asides that
will warn you about possible pitfalls and common
mistakes that test-takers may encounter.
][ ][ TEST TIP
These are quick and effective ways to boost your test
score and make your path a little clearer.
][ ][
you how the path you choose affects which exams you’ll take, the most commonly used
exams, what to expect, and how to prepare for and take your test.
Part 2, Say It Right: Verbal Review, discusses reading, writing, vocabulary, spelling, and
grammar—all skills that nursing school entrance exams want to assess in potential students.
We walk you through the different skills that are tested and provide review and practice that
will help you understand and apply these concepts.
Part 3, Math Matters, shows you why mathematics is an extremely important skill for
nurses to master and why all of the nursing school entrance exams include at least one math
section. This part will help you brush up on your basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry in
preparation for any of these exams.
Part 4, Scientific Method, provides a comprehensive review of earth and life sciences, biol-
ogy, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and physics concepts to help you through the
scientific sections of your test. Be sure to check out the practice questions at the end of each
chapter to test yourself on what you learned.
Part 5, Strength Training: Test Your Skills, gives you a chance to challenge yourself with
two sample tests featuring the types of questions often seen on the different types of nursing
school entrance exams. We also give you detailed answers and explanations to help you
practice your skills and learn from your mistakes.
If you’re still thirsty for more, check out the info-packed Resources appendix, which includes
a listing of the Boards of Nursing for all 50 states and U.S. territories, a list of professional
nursing associations, books, and websites.
Extras
Because we can all use a little extra help, we’ve also included some sidebars with useful
information to help speed you through your studies:
viii Nursing Entrance Exams
NURSING NOTES
These are interesting tidbits about the test, nursing,
and other related areas to help you keep things in
perspective and increase your understanding of the
material.
][ ][
DEFINITION
These are explanations of terms used throughout the
book to help you gain a deeper understanding of ideas
and concepts.
][ ][ CODE RED!
Make sure to pay attention to these asides that
will warn you about possible pitfalls and common
mistakes that test-takers may encounter.
][ ][ TEST TIP
These are quick and effective ways to boost your test
score and make your path a little clearer.
][ ][
Loading page 11...
Acknowledgments
Maryanne Baudo:
What pleases me most about being an author is the acknowledgement from students who
have used the book to gain entrance into the nursing program of their choice. I enjoy hear-
ing from them and thank them for reading it. Robin Kavanagh is very knowledgeable about
the process and a pleasure to work with. A thank you to my husband and children for their
unending support throughout my career and all undertakings I engage in.
Robin Kavanagh:
Thank you so much Maryanne Baudo, for being the expert in nursing education; Kara
LaFrance, for her inspired and always fabulous illustrations; Stephen Butkewitsch, our
Technical Editor, for reviewing the math and science chapters for accuracy; my daughter,
Jordan Matthews, for being patient as I completed my work on this book; and Marilyn Allen,
the best agent in the world. And of course, thank you to our team of editors.
Trademarks
All terms mentioned in this book that are known to be or are suspected of being trademarks
or service marks have been appropriately capitalized. Alpha Books and Penguin Group (USA)
Inc. cannot attest to the accuracy of this information. Use of a term in this book should not
be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark.
Introduction ix
Maryanne Baudo:
What pleases me most about being an author is the acknowledgement from students who
have used the book to gain entrance into the nursing program of their choice. I enjoy hear-
ing from them and thank them for reading it. Robin Kavanagh is very knowledgeable about
the process and a pleasure to work with. A thank you to my husband and children for their
unending support throughout my career and all undertakings I engage in.
Robin Kavanagh:
Thank you so much Maryanne Baudo, for being the expert in nursing education; Kara
LaFrance, for her inspired and always fabulous illustrations; Stephen Butkewitsch, our
Technical Editor, for reviewing the math and science chapters for accuracy; my daughter,
Jordan Matthews, for being patient as I completed my work on this book; and Marilyn Allen,
the best agent in the world. And of course, thank you to our team of editors.
Trademarks
All terms mentioned in this book that are known to be or are suspected of being trademarks
or service marks have been appropriately capitalized. Alpha Books and Penguin Group (USA)
Inc. cannot attest to the accuracy of this information. Use of a term in this book should not
be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark.
Introduction ix
Loading page 12...
Loading page 13...
Deciding to become a nurse is not as easy a decision as many
people think. There are many types of nurses and many
ways to become a nurse. And for every career and program
out there, you’ll find a different set of rules and require-
ments, not the least of which is some kind of entrance exam.
In this part, we introduce you to the different types of nurs-
ing careers there are, what your educational options are,
and how your certification and career path will affect which
entrance exams you’ll take. Then we walk you through some
of the most commonly used exams and break them down for
you, in addition to providing some test-specific tips. Finally,
we discuss general test-taking strategies that will help you
get through just about any standardized exam.
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
PART
1 Decision Diagnosis
people think. There are many types of nurses and many
ways to become a nurse. And for every career and program
out there, you’ll find a different set of rules and require-
ments, not the least of which is some kind of entrance exam.
In this part, we introduce you to the different types of nurs-
ing careers there are, what your educational options are,
and how your certification and career path will affect which
entrance exams you’ll take. Then we walk you through some
of the most commonly used exams and break them down for
you, in addition to providing some test-specific tips. Finally,
we discuss general test-taking strategies that will help you
get through just about any standardized exam.
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
PART
1 Decision Diagnosis
Loading page 14...
Loading page 15...
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C DCHAPTER
So, You Want to
Be a Nurse?
1
Some of us are born leaders. Others are born analysts or
artists. These types of natural skill sets can make us perfect
for some jobs and completely wrong for others. For example,
someone who has difficulty understanding basic math con-
cepts, such as percentages or fractions, is not likely to pursue
a career as a math professor. Likewise, a person without a
sense of tone or rhythm is not likely to become a musician.
Working in the nursing profession requires certain skills,
some that you can learn and others that come naturally.
Aptitude in math and science are an important part of any
job related to nursing, as are communication and analytical
skills.
This chapter introduces you to the different types of jobs
that fall within the nursing profession and what kinds of
education and certifications are needed for them. You’ll be
able to use this information to decide which career is right
for you, to set goals, and to choose which path you want to
take to reach them.
The Many Faces of Nursing
The word nurse evokes lots of images, depending on your
experience with the profession. For example, if you had
some kind of surgery or ever needed to go to the emergency
room, you may associate nursing with the people who took
care of you in the hospital. If you’ve cared for an elderly
relative, you may think of those nurses who work in adult
care facilities or come directly to the house.
Although these images of the work a nurse does are accurate,
they describe very different types of nursing practices. There
are several different career paths you can take within the
In This Chapter
B Finding entry-level and advanced-
level nursing careers
B Discovering options for education
B Navigating admissions
B Getting licensed
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C D
A B C DCHAPTER
So, You Want to
Be a Nurse?
1
Some of us are born leaders. Others are born analysts or
artists. These types of natural skill sets can make us perfect
for some jobs and completely wrong for others. For example,
someone who has difficulty understanding basic math con-
cepts, such as percentages or fractions, is not likely to pursue
a career as a math professor. Likewise, a person without a
sense of tone or rhythm is not likely to become a musician.
Working in the nursing profession requires certain skills,
some that you can learn and others that come naturally.
Aptitude in math and science are an important part of any
job related to nursing, as are communication and analytical
skills.
This chapter introduces you to the different types of jobs
that fall within the nursing profession and what kinds of
education and certifications are needed for them. You’ll be
able to use this information to decide which career is right
for you, to set goals, and to choose which path you want to
take to reach them.
The Many Faces of Nursing
The word nurse evokes lots of images, depending on your
experience with the profession. For example, if you had
some kind of surgery or ever needed to go to the emergency
room, you may associate nursing with the people who took
care of you in the hospital. If you’ve cared for an elderly
relative, you may think of those nurses who work in adult
care facilities or come directly to the house.
Although these images of the work a nurse does are accurate,
they describe very different types of nursing practices. There
are several different career paths you can take within the
In This Chapter
B Finding entry-level and advanced-
level nursing careers
B Discovering options for education
B Navigating admissions
B Getting licensed
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