HESI Exit Exam Study Questions and

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HESI Exit Exam Study Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

A patient is scheduled for an abdominal CT scan with contrast. Which statement indicates the patient understands pre-procedure instructions?

• “I can drink coffee right before the exam.”

✔✔B. “I need to be NPO for several hours before the exam.”

• “I should stop breathing during the test.”
• “I can eat a heavy meal just before the scan.”

Which instruction is most important before an MRI?

• Remove dentures

✔✔B. Remove all metallic objects

• Do not drink water before the exam
• Take prescribed medications with food

A chest x-ray is ordered for a patient. Which action ensures radiation safety for the nurse?

• Standing beside the patient during exposure 1 / 4

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• Wearing a lead apron and holding the patient’s arm

✔✔C. Standing behind a protective barrier during exposure

• Asking another nurse to hold the patient without protection

A patient asks why barium swallow is needed. Which is the best nurse response?

• “It helps check your lungs.”

✔✔B. “It outlines your esophagus and stomach for the x-ray.”

• “It measures your blood flow.”
• “It evaluates your brain function.”

Which patient should the nurse question before administering contrast dye?

• A patient with hypertension

✔✔B. A patient with history of kidney disease

• A patient with a fracture
• A patient with seasonal allergies

After a barium enema, which instruction should the nurse provide?

• Avoid drinking fluids for 24 hours 2 / 4

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✔✔B. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent constipation

• Remain NPO until bowel movement
• Avoid ambulation for the rest of the day

Which finding must be reported immediately after IV contrast administration?

• Mild nausea

✔✔B. Difficulty breathing and swelling of lips

• Warm sensation at injection site
• Metallic taste in the mouth

A nurse prepares a patient for an ultrasound. Which instruction is most accurate?✔✔A. The procedure uses sound waves and does not involve radiation

• The procedure requires general anesthesia
• The patient must be exposed to x-rays
• The procedure requires a lead shield

During portable x-rays, what should visitors in the room be instructed to do?

• Stand next to the machine 3 / 4

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✔✔B. Step out of the room or wear lead shielding

• Hold the patient without protection
• Stand directly behind the nurse

Which nursing action is required before a patient undergoes CT scan with contrast?

• Give a high-protein snack

✔✔B. Check for iodine or shellfish allergy

• Start oxygen therapy
• Administer oral barium sulfate

After an upper GI study, which stool finding is expected?

• Black and tarry stools

✔✔B. White or light-colored stools

• Loose green stools
• Normal brown stools immediately

Why is MRI contraindicated for a patient with a pacemaker?

• Radiation exposure is harmful to pacemakers
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