FUNDAMENTAL CMS PROCTORED EXAM 2025/2026 | 400 VERIFIED NURSING FUNDAMENTALS QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT ANSWERS AND RATIONALES | NCLEX, ATI, HESI STUDY GUIDE FOR TOP NURSING SCHOOLS (Unitek, Rasmussen, Chamberlain, WGU, Excelsior)

FUNDAMENTAL CMS PROCTORED EXAM 2025/2026
| 400 VERIFIED NURSING FUNDAMENTALS
QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT ANSWERS AND
RATIONALES | NCLEX, ATI, HESI STUDY GUIDE FOR
TOP NURSING SCHOOLS (Unitek, Rasmussen,
Chamberlain, WGU, Excelsior)

Question 1
What is the primary purpose of the nursing process?
(A) To provide a rigid framework for care
(B) To guide patient-centered care and improve outcomes
(C) To ensure compliance with regulations
(D) To limit the scope of nursing practice
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: The nursing process is a systematic approach that helps nurses provide
effective, individualized care to patients.


Question 2
What is the most important aspect of patient safety?
(A) Following all hospital protocols
(B) Identifying and mitigating risks to patients
(C) Ensuring all staff are trained
(D) Maintaining a clean environment
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Patient safety focuses on preventing harm and reducing risks, which is
crucial for effective healthcare delivery.


Question 3
Which vital sign is typically assessed first in a clinical setting?
(A) Blood pressure
(B) Heart rate
(C) Respiratory rate
(D) Temperature
Correct Option: (C)
Rationale: The respiratory rate is often assessed first as it can indicate immediate
respiratory distress.


Question 4
What is the normal range for adult blood pressure?
(A) 90/60 mmHg - 110/70 mmHg

,(B) 120/80 mmHg - 140/90 mmHg
(C) 120/80 mmHg - 130/85 mmHg
(D) 140/90 mmHg - 160/100 mmHg
Correct Option: (C)
Rationale: A normal blood pressure reading for adults is typically around 120/80
mmHg.


Question 5
What does the acronym "ABCDE" stand for in assessing a patient in distress?
(A) Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure
(B) Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Environment
(C) Assessment, Benefits, Care, Decision, Education
(D) Assessment, Breathing, Care, Diagnosis, Evaluation
Correct Option: (A)
Rationale: The ABCDE approach helps healthcare providers prioritize life-threatening
conditions effectively.


Question 6
What is the best way to prevent the spread of infection in a healthcare setting?
(A) Using hand sanitizer only
(B) Practicing proper hand hygiene
(C) Wearing gloves at all times
(D) Cleaning surfaces periodically
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Hand hygiene is the most effective method for preventing the transmission
of infections in healthcare environments.


Question 7
Which of the following is a sign of hypoglycemia?
(A) Increased thirst
(B) Sweating and shakiness
(C) Weight loss
(D) Blurred vision
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Sweating and shakiness are common symptoms of low blood sugar levels,
indicating hypoglycemia.


Question 8
What is the primary role of a nurse in patient education?
(A) To provide detailed medical explanations

,(B) To empower patients to make informed health decisions
(C) To perform all necessary procedures
(D) To monitor patient compliance
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Patient education focuses on empowering individuals to understand their
health and make informed choices.


Question 9
What is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient experiencing anxiety?
(A) Providing detailed medical information
(B) Encouraging deep breathing exercises
(C) Ignoring the feelings of anxiety
(D) Suggesting medication immediately
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in
patients.


Question 10
In which situation should a nurse use contact precautions?
(A) Caring for a patient with tuberculosis
(B) Caring for a patient with a draining wound
(C) Caring for a patient with a respiratory infection
(D) Caring for a patient post-surgery
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Contact precautions are necessary when managing patients with infections
that can be transmitted through direct contact.


Question 11
What is the recommended action for a nurse if a patient refuses medication?
(A) Force the medication upon the patient
(B) Respect the patient’s decision and document it
(C) Report the patient to a physician immediately
(D) Administer the medication anyway
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Patient autonomy must be respected, and the refusal should be
documented for legal and clinical reasons.


Question 12
What is the purpose of a thorough patient assessment?
(A) To fill out paperwork

, (B) To gather information necessary for effective care planning
(C) To comply with hospital regulations
(D) To keep the patient occupied
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: A comprehensive assessment provides essential data that guides nursing
diagnoses and interventions.


Question 13
Which assessment finding is most concerning in a patient with chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD)?
(A) Mild wheezing
(B) Increased respiratory rate and use of accessory muscles
(C) Productive cough
(D) Occasional shortness of breath
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Increased respiratory effort and use of accessory muscles indicate
respiratory distress and require immediate attention.


Question 14
What is the most effective way to assess pain in a patient?
(A) Observing body language
(B) Asking the patient to rate their pain on a scale
(C) Relying on vital signs
(D) Conducting a physical exam
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Self-reporting is the most reliable method for assessing pain, as it reflects
the patient's personal experience.


Question 15
Which of the following should a nurse monitor in a patient receiving warfarin therapy?
(A) Blood glucose levels
(B) International normalized ratio (INR)
(C) Blood pressure
(D) Heart rate
Correct Option: (B)
Rationale: Monitoring INR is crucial for patients on warfarin to ensure therapeutic levels
and prevent bleeding complications.


Question 16
What is the primary responsibility of the nurse during medication administration?