Actual Exam Questions and Correct Answers
A patient tells the FNP that he is very nervous, that he is nauseated, and that he “feels hot”. This
type of data would be:
A) Objective
B) Subjective
C) Clinical
D) Diagnostic
Correct Answer: B) Subjective
Explanation: Symptoms reported by the patient, such as feeling nervous, nauseated, or hot, are
subjective data, as they are based on the patient’s personal experience. Objective data are
measurable findings, clinical refers to observations, and diagnostic refers to test results.
The patient’s record, laboratory studies, objective data, and subjective data combine to form the:
A) Health history
B) Medical record
C) Problem list
D) Database
Correct Answer: D) Database
Explanation: The database encompasses the patient’s record, laboratory studies, objective data
(physical exam findings), and subjective data (history). The health history is a subset, the
medical record is broader, and the problem list is a summary of diagnoses.
The FNP is reviewing information about evidence-based practice. Which statement best reflects
evidence-based practice?
A) It relies on clinical experience alone
B) It integrates best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values
C) It uses only randomized controlled trials
D) It follows traditional clinical protocols
,Correct Answer: B) It integrates best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values
Explanation: Evidence-based practice combines the best available research evidence, clinical
expertise, and patient preferences to guide care. It is not limited to clinical experience, trials, or
traditional protocols alone.
A 59-year-old patient tells the FNP that he has ulcerative colitis. He has been having black stools
for the last 24 hours. How would the FNP best document his reason for seeking care?
A) “Patient reports black stools for 24 hours”
B) “Patient with ulcerative colitis presents with melena”
C) “Patient complains of abdominal pain and black stools”
D) “Patient with history of colitis reports rectal bleeding”
Correct Answer: A) “Patient reports black stools for 24 hours”
Explanation: The reason for seeking care (chief complaint) is documented as the patient’s stated
concern, “black stools for 24 hours.” Option B assumes a diagnosis (melena), C adds
unmentioned symptoms, and D misstates the symptom.
A 29-year-old woman tells the FNP that she has excruciating pain in her back. Which would be
an appropriate response by the FNP to the woman’s statement?
A) “Can you describe the pain and where it’s located?”
B) “That sounds serious, let’s order an MRI.”
C) “It’s probably just muscle strain.”
D) “Have you tried any pain medications?”
Correct Answer: A) “Can you describe the pain and where it’s located?”
Explanation: Asking for a description and location clarifies the symptom, aiding diagnosis.
Assuming a diagnosis (C), ordering tests prematurely (B), or focusing on treatment (D) bypasses
thorough history-taking.
In recording the childhood illnesses of a patient who denies having had any, which note by the
FNP would be most accurate?
A) “No childhood illnesses reported”
B) “Patient denies history of childhood illnesses”
, C) “Patient had no significant childhood illnesses”
D) “Childhood illnesses: none per patient history”
Correct Answer: B) “Patient denies history of childhood illnesses”
Explanation: “Patient denies history of childhood illnesses” directly reflects the patient’s
statement, ensuring accuracy. Options A, C, and D are similar but less precise in documenting
the patient’s denial.
If a female patient tells the FNP that she has had six pregnancies, with four live births at term
and two spontaneous abortions. Her four children are still living. How would the FNP record this
information?
A) Gravida 6, Para 4
B) Gravida 6, Para 2, Abortions 2
C) Gravida 4, Para 4, Abortions 2
D) Gravida 6, Para 4, Abortions 2
Correct Answer: D) Gravida 6, Para 4, Abortions 2
Explanation: Gravida (G) indicates total pregnancies (6), Para (P) indicates live births at term
(4), and abortions (A) indicate spontaneous or induced losses (2). Thus, G6P4A2 is correct.
Which of these statements represents subjective data the FNP obtained from the patient
regarding the patient’s skin?
A) “Patient reports itching on arms for 2 weeks”
B) “Skin is dry and scaly on examination”
C) “Patient has a 2 cm erythematous lesion”
D) “Skin turgor is normal”
Correct Answer: A) “Patient reports itching on arms for 2 weeks”
Explanation: Subjective data are patient-reported symptoms, such as itching. Options B, C, and
D describe objective findings from the physical exam.
The FNP is obtaining a history for a 30-year-old male patient and is concerned about health
promotion activities. Which of these questions would be appropriate to use to assess health
promotion activities for this patient?