6 Facts to Know About the NCLEX Exam
Feeling stressed about preparing for the NCLEX? This guide explains 6 important things for future nurses to know about the NCLEX exam. Aspiring nurses need to pass the NCLEX before becoming a registered nurse (RN). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) administers this test to evaluate nursing candidates’ knowledge and ensure their qualification to work in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Here are the six things you should understand before taking the NCLEX exam.
1. Two Types of NCLEX Examinations
The NCLEX comes in two versions. The NCLEX-PN assesses aspiring practical nurses (also called licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses). The NCLEX-RN tests candidates for registered nursing.
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Both tests share some similarities, but they have significant differences. The RN exam focuses on care management and evaluates registered nurses’ advanced practice. The PN exam includes more questions about care coordination.
2. Four Practice Areas of the NCLEX Exam
The NCLEX exam has four main practice areas:
– Providing a safe and effective care environment
– Health promotion and maintenance
– Psychosocial integrity
– Physiological integrity
The safe and effective care category has two subcategories:
– Management of care and safety and infection control for NCLEX-RN
– Coordinated care and safety and infection control for NCLEX-PN
The physiological integrity category has four subcategories:
For both RN and PN exams:
– Basic care and comfort
– Reduction of risk potential
– Physiological adaptation
Pharmacological therapy for NCLEX-PN and pharmacological and parenteral therapies for NCLEX-RN.
3. Question Types in the NCLEX Examination
The NCLEX uses a variable question format. This means the computer adapts questions based on how test takers perform. The NCLEX-RN has 74-145 questions, including 15 pre-test questions that don’t affect scores. The NCLEX-PN has 85-205 questions, with 25 non-scored questions. Both exams have a five-hour time limit.
The test presents questions in various formats. Our NCLEX study guide covers all question types. These formats include:
– Multiple choice
– Fill in the blank
– Ordered response
– Hot spot questions
Around 80-90% of the NCLEX consists of multiple choice questions. For those taking the NCLEX in 2023 or later, the Next Generation 2023 NCLEX has updated question formats, adding matrix or grid and Cloze (dropdown) question types.
4. Scoring in the NCLEX Exam
Instead of giving a percentage-based grade, the NCLEX uses a pass-fail system, though it’s not as simple as it seems.
The NCLEX employs Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) to tailor scores for each test taker. After answering a question, the next one depends on the previous answers. The computer selects questions that have a 50% chance of being correct.
You continue answering questions until the computer decides if you pass or fail using three rules:
– The 95% Confidence Interval Rule: The test stops when the computer is 95% confident of your pass or fail.
– Maximum Length Exam Rule: If close to passing, you complete the maximum questions. Then the computer estimates your final result.
– The Run-Out-of-Time Rule: If time ends and pass/fail isn’t clear, the computer:
– Fails you if you didn’t answer minimum questions
– Uses your answered questions for final estimate if you’ve met the minimum
Remember, exam length doesn’t determine passing or failing. To learn more, check out nurses’ tips on passing the NCLEX.
5. State-Based License Registration
Before registering for the NCLEX, candidates must get a nursing credential from their state licensing board. Since each state has different licensure requirements, consult your state regulatory board before applying.
6. Applying for the NCLEX
– Apply for your RN or LPN license through your state’s nursing board.
– Register for the NCLEX on Pearson VUE’s website. Provide your nursing school’s program code and email. Register and pay the $200 fee online or by phone.
– When your state’s nursing board approves, Pearson VUE emails your Authorization to Test (ATT).
– Schedule your exam with Pearson VUE and take the NCLEX within your ATT’s validity dates.
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