I studied with this [h=3]HESI Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination, 3e (HESI Evolve Reach Comprehensive Review f/ NCLEX-RN Examination)[/h] thought it was golden. Also the Hesi test-taking tutorials on the evolve website are really helpful. I went through them the night before the test and they helped put me in the right hesi-mindset.
My friend had a clinical instructor who made her students feel the same way that you described. It was really hard for her. AND it wasn't true. You just have to keep believing in yourself.