UGC NET Nursing sample questions with answers
Preparing for the UGC NET Nursing exam requires a deep understanding of the subject and the ability to apply knowledge under timed conditions. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this computer-based test (CBT) for M.Sc. Nursing graduates aspiring to Assistant Professor positions or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities. The exam consists of Paper I (teaching/research aptitude) and Paper II (Nursing subject). Paper II carries 100 questions worth 200 marks, with +2 for each correct answer and no negative marking. To help you gauge the quality and difficulty of questions, we have curated 10 sample MCQs across three levels: easy, moderate, and advanced. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation. Use these to sharpen your clinical reasoning and exam strategy. Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying.
Easy-level sample questions
Question 1 Which of the following is the primary purpose of the nursing process? A) To provide a legal framework for nursing practice B) To ensure holistic and individualized patient care C) To reduce the cost of healthcare delivery D) To standardize nursing interventions globally
Answer: B) To ensure holistic and individualized patient care Explanation: The nursing process is a systematic, patient-centered method that includes assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Its main goal is to deliver care tailored to the unique needs of each patient, promoting holistic well-being.
Question 2 The "fight or flight" response is primarily mediated by which division of the autonomic nervous system? A) Parasympathetic B) Sympathetic C) Enteric D) Somatic
Answer: B) Sympathetic Explanation: The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for stressful situations by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow to muscles. This is the classic stress response.
Question 3 Which vitamin is synthesized by the skin upon exposure to sunlight? A) Vitamin A B) Vitamin C C) Vitamin D D) Vitamin K
Answer: C) Vitamin D Explanation: Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight trigger the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin to vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.
Moderate-level sample questions
Question 4 A nurse is caring for a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4. Which dietary modification is most appropriate? A) High protein, low potassium B) Low protein, low potassium, low phosphorus C) High calcium, high phosphorus D) Low carbohydrate, high sodium
Answer: B) Low protein, low potassium, low phosphorus Explanation: In CKD stage 4 (GFR 15–29 mL/min), the kidneys cannot effectively excrete protein waste products, potassium, and phosphorus. A low-protein diet reduces urea load; low potassium prevents hyperkalemia; low phosphorus prevents hyperphosphatemia and renal osteodystrophy.
Question 5 Which of the following is a key feature of the Neuman Systems Model? A) Focus on self-care deficits B) Emphasis on stressors and lines of defense C) Central concept of caring D) Adaptation to environmental stimuli
Answer: B) Emphasis on stressors and lines of defense Explanation: Betty Neuman's model views the client as a system that interacts with environmental stressors. The model describes flexible, normal, and resistant lines of defense that protect the client's core stability. Nursing interventions aim to strengthen these lines.
Question 6 A patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed metformin. Which adverse effect requires immediate reporting? A) Nausea B) Diarrhea C) Lactic acidosis D) Metallic taste
Answer: C) Lactic acidosis Explanation: Metformin can rarely cause lactic acidosis, especially in patients with renal impairment, liver disease, or acute illness. Symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and severe fatigue. It is a medical emergency.
Advanced/hard sample questions
Question 7 In a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating a new wound dressing, the control group receives standard care. Which type of bias is most likely to affect the internal validity if the outcome assessor is aware of group assignment? A) Selection bias B) Performance bias C) Detection bias D) Attrition bias
Answer: C) Detection bias Explanation: Detection bias occurs when the outcome assessment is influenced by knowledge of the intervention. Blinding the assessor (outcome assessor blinding) is essential to prevent this. Performance bias relates to differences in care provided; selection bias relates to group allocation; attrition bias relates to dropout differences.
Question 8 A community health nurse is planning a program to reduce childhood obesity. Which theoretical framework would best guide the intervention at the policy level? A) Health Belief Model B) Transtheoretical Model C) Social Ecological Model D) Theory of Planned Behavior
Answer: C) Social Ecological Model Explanation: The Social Ecological Model considers multiple levels of influence: individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy. For policy-level change (e.g., school nutrition standards, urban planning), this model is most appropriate. The other models focus more on individual or small-group behavior.
Question 9 A nurse researcher calculates a p-value of 0.04 for a study comparing two pain management protocols. What does this indicate? A) There is a 4% probability that the null hypothesis is true B) There is a 4% chance of observing the result (or more extreme) if the null hypothesis is true C) The treatment effect is clinically significant D) The study has 96% power
Answer: B) There is a 4% chance of observing the result (or more extreme) if the null hypothesis is true Explanation: The p-value is the probability of obtaining the observed data (or more extreme) under the assumption that the null hypothesis is true. A p-value < 0.05 is conventionally considered statistically significant, but it does not measure clinical significance or the probability that the null hypothesis is false.
Question 10 Which of the following is a core competency for nurse educators as per the National League for Nursing (NLN) Nurse Educator Competencies? A) Prescribe pharmacological treatments B) Facilitate learner development and socialization C) Perform advanced diagnostic procedures D) Manage hospital budgets
Answer: B) Facilitate learner development and socialization Explanation: The NLN identifies eight core competencies for nurse educators, including facilitating learner development and socialization, using assessment and evaluation strategies, and functioning as a change agent. The other options are not part of the educator role.
How to interpret distractors
In UGC NET Nursing, each MCQ has one correct answer and three distractors (incorrect options). Distractors are designed to test your depth of knowledge. Here are strategies to handle them:
- Look for absolutes: Words like "always," "never," "all," or "none" often make a statement false. For example, "All diabetic patients require insulin" is an overgeneralization.
- Identify the best answer: Sometimes two options seem correct, but one is more comprehensive or directly addresses the question. Prioritize the one that is most specific to the scenario.
- Eliminate obvious wrongs: Cross out options that are clearly unrelated or contradictory. This increases your chance of guessing correctly if needed.
- Recognize patterns: NTA often tests definitions, classifications, and nursing models. Familiarize yourself with key theorists (e.g., Neuman, Orem, Roy) and research terminology.
- Practice with mock tests: Regular practice helps you spot common distractors and improves your speed. You can take a free full mock test on PractiseExam.com to simulate the real exam environment.
Take a free full mock test
Ready to test your preparation? Visit PractiseExam.com and access a full-length UGC NET Nursing mock test that mirrors the actual CBT pattern. The test includes Paper I and Paper II questions, a timer, and instant scoring. Practice with realistic questions, review detailed explanations, and identify your weak areas. Consistent practice is the key to cracking the exam. Start your free mock test today and take a step closer to your Assistant Professor or JRF dream.
For more resources, check out our detailed pages on the UGC NET Nursing syllabus, preparation strategy, best books, exam pattern, and full mock tests.