HESI RN Critical Thinking Exam | Clinical Judgment and Prioritization Practice | 2025/2026 Edition Section 1: Introduction Focuses on clinical decision-making, outcome prioritization, and patient safety using multi-step logic questions. Ideal for sharpening the reasoning and judgment skills required for both HESI and NGN-style NCLEX questions, reflecting the evolving demands of nursing practice as of 2025/2026. Section 2: Exam Questions and Full Answers 1. A nurse assesses a 65-year-old patient with chest pain, diaphoresis, and nausea. What is the nurses priority action? A. Administer oxygen B. Obtain a 12-lead ECG C. Provide a warm blanket D. Assess pain level Full Answer: Answer B. Obtain a 12-lead ECG. Symptoms suggest a possible myocardial infarction, and an ECG is critical to confirm the diagnosis and guide immediate treatment. 2. A nurse cares for four patients. Which should be assessed first? A. A patient with new confusion post-surgery B. A patient with stable vitals after hip replacement C. A patient with a medication due in 30 minutes D. A patient with a resolved UTI Full Answer: Answer A. A patient with new confusion post-surgery. This may indicate delirium or hypoxia, requiring immediate evaluation. 3. A diabetic patient has a blood glucose of 42