HESI Anatomy and Physiology (2026/2027) | 55 QUESTIONS
AND CORRECT ANSWERS
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Section | Core Domains: Basic Anatomical Terminology, Cellular
Biology & Histology, Integumentary System, Skeletal System, Muscular System, Nervous System,
Endocrine System, Cardiovascular System, Lymphatic & Immune Systems, Respiratory System,
Digestive System, Renal System, and Reproductive Systems | Nursing & Healthcare Program Admission
Focus | Standardized Assessment Format
Exam Structure
The HESI Anatomy and Physiology exam for the 2026/2027 admissions cycle is a 55-question,
multiple-choice examination.
Introduction
This HESI Anatomy and Physiology preparation guide for the 2026/2027 academic year reflects the
foundational biological sciences knowledge required for success in nursing and allied health programs.
The content emphasizes the interrelationship of structure and function across all body systems, providing
the essential basis for understanding pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical nursing practice.
Answer Format
All correct answers and anatomical/physiological concepts must be presented in bold and green,
followed by detailed rationales that clarify structural relationships, physiological mechanisms, and clinical
correlations relevant to healthcare practice.
1. Which plane divides the body into superior and inferior portions?
A. Sagittal
B. Frontal (coronal)
C. Transverse (horizontal)
D. Midsagittal
C. Transverse (horizontal)
The transverse plane (also called the horizontal plane) runs parallel to the ground and divides the body
into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. The sagittal plane divides left and right, and the frontal
(coronal) plane divides anterior and posterior.
2. Which of the following is the basic structural and functional unit of life?
,A. Atom
B. Molecule
C. Cell
D. Tissue
C. Cell
The cell is the smallest unit that can carry out all life processes. All living organisms are composed of
cells, which perform essential functions such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction.
3. Which organelle is responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration?
A. Nucleus
B. Lysosome
C. Mitochondrion
D. Golgi apparatus
C. Mitochondrion
Mitochondria are known as the "powerhouses" of the cell because they generate adenosine triphosphate
(ATP) via aerobic respiration. This process involves the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain,
occurring in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
4. Which type of tissue lines body cavities and covers the body surface?
A. Connective tissue
B. Muscle tissue
C. Nervous tissue
D. Epithelial tissue
D. Epithelial tissue
Epithelial tissue forms continuous sheets that cover external surfaces (e.g., skin), line internal cavities
(e.g., digestive tract), and form glands. It functions in protection, secretion, absorption, and sensation.
, 5. The epidermis is primarily composed of which type of epithelial cells?
A. Simple squamous
B. Stratified squamous
C. Simple columnar
D. Pseudostratified ciliated columnar
B. Stratified squamous
The epidermis is made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which provides a tough,
waterproof barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and dehydration. This multi-layered
structure allows for continuous shedding and renewal.
6. Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands?
A. Epidermis
B. Dermis
C. Hypodermis
D. Stratum corneum
B. Dermis
The dermis is the thick, vascular layer beneath the epidermis. It contains collagen and elastin fibers for
strength and elasticity, as well as sensory receptors, blood vessels, and appendages like hair and glands.
The hypodermis (subcutaneous layer) lies below and stores fat.
7. Which bone is part of the axial skeleton?
A. Femur
B. Humerus
C. Sternum
D. Tibia
AND CORRECT ANSWERS
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Section | Core Domains: Basic Anatomical Terminology, Cellular
Biology & Histology, Integumentary System, Skeletal System, Muscular System, Nervous System,
Endocrine System, Cardiovascular System, Lymphatic & Immune Systems, Respiratory System,
Digestive System, Renal System, and Reproductive Systems | Nursing & Healthcare Program Admission
Focus | Standardized Assessment Format
Exam Structure
The HESI Anatomy and Physiology exam for the 2026/2027 admissions cycle is a 55-question,
multiple-choice examination.
Introduction
This HESI Anatomy and Physiology preparation guide for the 2026/2027 academic year reflects the
foundational biological sciences knowledge required for success in nursing and allied health programs.
The content emphasizes the interrelationship of structure and function across all body systems, providing
the essential basis for understanding pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical nursing practice.
Answer Format
All correct answers and anatomical/physiological concepts must be presented in bold and green,
followed by detailed rationales that clarify structural relationships, physiological mechanisms, and clinical
correlations relevant to healthcare practice.
1. Which plane divides the body into superior and inferior portions?
A. Sagittal
B. Frontal (coronal)
C. Transverse (horizontal)
D. Midsagittal
C. Transverse (horizontal)
The transverse plane (also called the horizontal plane) runs parallel to the ground and divides the body
into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. The sagittal plane divides left and right, and the frontal
(coronal) plane divides anterior and posterior.
2. Which of the following is the basic structural and functional unit of life?
,A. Atom
B. Molecule
C. Cell
D. Tissue
C. Cell
The cell is the smallest unit that can carry out all life processes. All living organisms are composed of
cells, which perform essential functions such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction.
3. Which organelle is responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration?
A. Nucleus
B. Lysosome
C. Mitochondrion
D. Golgi apparatus
C. Mitochondrion
Mitochondria are known as the "powerhouses" of the cell because they generate adenosine triphosphate
(ATP) via aerobic respiration. This process involves the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain,
occurring in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
4. Which type of tissue lines body cavities and covers the body surface?
A. Connective tissue
B. Muscle tissue
C. Nervous tissue
D. Epithelial tissue
D. Epithelial tissue
Epithelial tissue forms continuous sheets that cover external surfaces (e.g., skin), line internal cavities
(e.g., digestive tract), and form glands. It functions in protection, secretion, absorption, and sensation.
, 5. The epidermis is primarily composed of which type of epithelial cells?
A. Simple squamous
B. Stratified squamous
C. Simple columnar
D. Pseudostratified ciliated columnar
B. Stratified squamous
The epidermis is made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which provides a tough,
waterproof barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and dehydration. This multi-layered
structure allows for continuous shedding and renewal.
6. Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands?
A. Epidermis
B. Dermis
C. Hypodermis
D. Stratum corneum
B. Dermis
The dermis is the thick, vascular layer beneath the epidermis. It contains collagen and elastin fibers for
strength and elasticity, as well as sensory receptors, blood vessels, and appendages like hair and glands.
The hypodermis (subcutaneous layer) lies below and stores fat.
7. Which bone is part of the axial skeleton?
A. Femur
B. Humerus
C. Sternum
D. Tibia
