NCLEX
National Council Licensure Examination
In both the US and Canada, the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, is a standardized test for nurses. Its purpose is to evaluate the knowledge and abilities required for entry-level nursing practice that is both safe and successful. Regardless of the level of licensure you are pursuing, passing the NCLEX is a prerequisite for becoming a licensed nurse. This includes registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs).
The NCLEX is computer-adaptive, meaning that depending on how well you do, the questions either harder or easier. The test comprises of both multiple-choice and alternative item forms, including fill-in-the-blank, drag-and-drop, and select all that apply (SATA) questions.
Types of NCLEX Exams: There are two types of NCLEX exams:
- NCLEX-RN: This exam is for those seeking to become registered nurses (RNs).
2. NCLEX-PN: This exam is for those seeking to become licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVN).
Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT): The NCLEX uses computerized adaptive testing, which means that the difficulty of the questions adapts to the test-taker’s performance. As you answer questions correctly, the exam becomes more challenging.
Content and Format: The NCLEX exam consists of multiple-choice questions, as well as alternative item formats such as multiple response, fill-in-the-blank, and hot spot questions. The exam covers a wide range of nursing topics, including health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, physiological integrity, and safe and effective care environments.