Knowledge Builders

what is on the nclex exam

by Mandy Daugherty Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

What Does the NCLEX Exam Test For?

  • Basic Care and Comfort: 7-13%
  • Pharmacological Therapies: 10-16%
  • Reduction of Risk Potential: 9-15%
  • Physiological Adaptation: 7-13%

2. NCLEX Exam Focuses on Four Areas. The NCLEX exam is divided into four main areas of focus: providing a safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. Those main categories break further down into specific topics.Jun 29, 2022

Full Answer

What do you need to know about the NCLEX exam?

Summary of Steps to take the NCLEX

  • Learn about eligibility and then apply for licensure/ registration with a NRB .
  • Register and pay the exam fee to Pearson VUE .
  • Wait to schedule until you receive the following from Pearson VUE: Acknowledgement of Receipt of Registration and Authorization to Test (ATT)
  • Schedule your exam with Pearson VUE .

What are the rules for taking the NCLEX?

  • Apply for their registered professional nursing license with the state board of nursing where the person wants their initial license. ...
  • You must meet all of the state's eligibility requirements to take the NCLEX-RN Examination.
  • You then register for the NCLEX-RN Examination with Pearson VUE which is the official testing company. ...

More items...

How do you prepare for the NCLEX exam?

Remember these essential methods to minimize stress:

  • Keep a balance between study, work, personal life.
  • Sleep regularly. ...
  • Exercise daily. ...
  • Study a bit every day, but don’t let study consume your life. ...
  • Take a trip to the testing center where you will actually be taking the NCLEX. ...

More items...

How to study and pass the NCLEX?

nclex study plan weeks 2 and 3: working your study guide for success Continue to work through practice questions , taking breaks after each testing session. Review and remediate the previous practice set prior to taking the next practice set.

See more

image

What topics are on the NCLEX exam?

How will questions be distributed on the test?Physiological adaptation: 14%Management of care: 20%Reduction of Risk Potential: 12%Safety and Infection Control: 12%Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies: 15%Basic Care and Comfort: 9%Psychosocial Integrity: 9%Health Promotion and Maintenance: 9%

Is the NCLEX a hard exam?

NCLEX Pass Rates According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, in 2017, the first-attempt NCLEX pass rate for U.S.-educated nursing students was 87%. The second-attempt pass rate for domestically-educated students taking the test was 45.56%. These results demonstrate that it is a pretty difficult test.

How many hours is NCLEX exam?

Due to the addition of the 15 pretest items, the minimum length exam is 75 items and the maximum length exam is 145 items. Maximum examination time is five hours.

What do I need to know to pass the NCLEX?

Keep reading for NCLEX tips that can help you pass the exam the first time you take it.Block Off Time to Study.Use NCLEX Exam Study Aids.Remember Needs Prioritization.Remember Your ABCs.The Answer Is Never “Do Nothing”How to Handle “Select all That Apply”' Questions.The Night Before the Test.The Day of the Test.More items...•

Can you fail NCLEX in 75?

To pass the NCLEX RN or PN, test takers must correctly answer at least 75 questions (the minimum amount). Unfortunately, that means you can also fail the exam within those 75 questions or items.

Can I pass the NCLEX without studying?

Studying without a plan is a waste of your time and won't ultimately help you pass the NCLEX. It's not about the hours you put in, it's about how you use them. This is one exam you can absolutely not cram for – the NCLEX is a holistic test model that aims to test knowledge gained over the course of years, not days.

What is the passing score for NCLEX?

In December 2019, the NCSBN Board of Directors voted to raise the passing standard for the NCLEX-PN Examination. The new passing standard is -0.18 logits*, 0.03 logits higher than the current standard of -0.21 logits.

What is the pass rate for NCLEX?

First Time NCLEX Pass Rates and Schools According to the NCSBN, the national first time NCLEX-RN pass rate for US educated nurses in 2020 was 86.5% and the PN pass rate for the same period of time was 83%.

What does it mean if you get all 145 questions on NCLEX?

Answering all 145 questions on the NCLEX-RN alone does not mean you failed the exam. However, with each correct answer you provide, the test should give you a question that becomes increasingly more difficult than the previous one.

Which state NCLEX is the easiest?

If you are looking for the best state for NCLEX or easiest state to pass NCLEX, here are the top 5:#1 Connecticut. ... #2 Montana. ... #3 New York. ... #4 Northern Mariana Islands. ... #5 South Dakota.

How many questions can you miss on NCLEX?

For examinees taking the NCLEX-RN, at least 75 questions must be answered. A minimum of 85 questions must be completed on the NCLEX-PN exam. Test-takers who do not answer the minimum number of questions within the time limit automatically fail the test.

How many times can you take the NCLEX?

And if you are wondering how often you can take the NCLEX, the NCSBN retake policy allows for a retake eight times a year, ensuring 45 exam-free days between each test.

Is it hard to fail NCLEX?

It's for good reason that the NCLEX might be the hardest test you'll ever take. Nurses save the lives of patients every day. They're so good at saving lives that nursing has been considered the most trusted profession in the United States for decades.

What is the NCLEX pass rate?

First Time NCLEX Pass Rates and Schools According to the NCSBN, the national first time NCLEX-RN pass rate for US educated nurses in 2020 was 86.5% and the PN pass rate for the same period of time was 83%.

How many people fail the NCLEX?

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) reports 13.43% of NCLEX-RN candidates fail the exam on their first attempt. The number of unsuccessful test-takers is low compared to the more than 86% who pass the exam on their first try.

What percentage do you need to pass NCLEX?

The NCLEX is scored using dichotomous scoring, so you can either pass or fail the exam. Currently, to pass the NCLEX-RN, the standard is 0.00 logits–or answer questions correctly at least 50% of the time. The NCLEX-PN standard is -0.18 logits.

How many questions are there on the NCLEX-RN?

Everyone answers a minimum of 75 questions to a maximum of 145 questions. Regardless of how many you answer, you will be given 15 experimental ques...

How much time will I have to take the NCLEX-RN?

There is no time limit for each individual question. You'll have a maximum of 6 hours to complete the exam, which includes a tutorial in the beginn...

When does the NCLEX-RN exam end?

Your exam ends when one of the following occurs: You have demonstrated minimum competency and answered the minimum number of questions (75). You ha...

What if I fail the NCLEX-RN?

First, don't despair. You are not alone. Many students do not pass the NCLEX-RN® exam on their first attempt. Failing the exam means that you did n...

Should I take the NCLEX-RN again?

Absolutely. Re-testing for the NCLEX-RN® exam is permitted 45 days after the initial administration (unless you're in Georgia or Guam—contact SBON...

Are there more than one type of NCLEX exam?

The NCLEX comes in two different forms. The NCLEX-PN evaluates aspiring practical nurses (also known as licensed practical nurses or licensed vocat...

What does the NCLEX Exam focus on?

The NCLEX exam is divided into four main areas of focus: providing a safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychos...

How many questions are on the NCLEX exam?

the NCLEX-RN could consist of anywhere from 74-145 questions. This includes 15 pre-test questions that do not count toward test takers’ scores. The...

What is the purpose of the NCLEX exam?

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN ® exam) has one purpose: To determine if it's safe for you to begin practice as an entry-level nurse. It is significantly different from any test that you took in nursing school. While nursing school exams are knowledge-based, the NCLEX-RN ® tests application and analysis using ...

What is the NCLEX RN?

While nursing school exams are knowledge-based, the NCLEX-RN ® tests application and analysis using the nursing knowledge you learned in school. You will be tested on how you can use critical thinking skills to make nursing judgments.

What percentage of nursing exam questions are safety and infection control?

Safety and Infection Control accounts for 9-15% of exam questions. Nursing actions include Accident Prevention, Error Prevention, Hazardous Materials, Surgical Asepsis, Standard Precautions, and Use of Restraints.

What does it mean when you fail the NCLEX RN exam?

Many students do not pass the NCLEX-RN ® exam on their first attempt. Failing the exam means that you did not successfully answer questions at or above the level of difficulty needed to pass. On this particular exam, you were unable to demonstrate your ability to provide safe and effective care.

How long after a nclex test can you retake?

Absolutely. Re-testing for the NCLEX-RN ® exam is permitted 45 days after the initial administration (unless you're in Georgia or Guam—contact SBON for details).

What percentage of the nursing exam is physiological adaptation?

Physiological Adaptation accounts for 11-17% of the exam. Its tested nursing actions include Alterations in the Body Systems, Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances, Hemodynamics, Medical Emergencies, Pathophysiology, and Unexpected Response to Therapies.

How much does it cost to take the NCLEX?

The cost to take the NCLEX-RN ® exam is $200. Additional licensure fees are determined by the individual State Boards of Nursing. Send your completed test application and fee to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. You can register by phone by calling: 1-866-496-2539 in the USA (1-952-681-3815 for outside the USA) between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Eastern), Monday through Friday. Phone registrants are required to pay by VISA or Master Card. There is a $9.50 service fee for the phone registration. If you prefer, you may send a personal check, cashier's check or money order to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

What is the NCLEX exam?

The NCLEX exam, also known as the National Council Licensure Examination, is used by state boards of nursing to decide whether or not a candidate is ready to begin practicing as an entry-level nurse.

How Can I Prepare for the NCLEX?

Lectures, quizzes, and practice tests can all serve as useful materials. For example, these NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN review guides can help you prepare for the exams, and this nursing fundamentals course provides a review of basic nursing concepts.

How much does it cost to register for the NCLEX?

As soon as your eligibility is confirmed, you will receive an ATT, or Authorization to Test. The board also provides helpful information concerning the location of testing centers and instructions on how to make an appointment. You'll also need to pay the registration fee, which is $200.

How many questions are asked on the RN exam?

The number of questions varies depending on which version of the test you're taking. The RN test has a maximum of 265 questions and a minimum of 75, while the PN has a maximum of 205 and a minimum of 85. For both exams, you'll also be asked 15 experimental questions, which will not count towards your final score.

What is the Test Format?

The majority of questions are multiple-choice, although other potential formats include fill-in-the-blank, drag-and-drop, and chart/exhibit questions. Regardless of format, all questions will relate to nursing concepts and topics.

What are the main areas of focus for the NCLEX exam?

The NCLEX exam is divided into four main areas of focus: providing a safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. Those main categories break further down into specific topics. For instance, the safe and effective care category addresses clients' rights and responsibilities.

What is the NCLEX RN?

The NCLEX comes in two different forms. The NCLEX-PN evaluates aspiring practical nurses (also known as licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses). The NCLEX-RN tests registered nursing candidates.

How many questions are asked on the NCLEX?

This means that the computer adapts the questions based on test takers' performance, so the NCLEX-RN could consist of anywhere from 74-145 questions. This includes 15 pre-test questions that do not count toward test takers' scores.

How does adaptive testing work on the NCLEX?

Not only does the NCLEX exam's computerized adaptive testing tailor questions to test takers' aptitudes, but it also determines the scoring process. The test uses questions to estimate candidates' perceived abilities, then asks additional questions to test whether candidates meet that estimate. Candidates stop receiving questions when the computer analysis system reaches 95% certainty that test-takers pass or fail.

What is the difference between RN and PN?

The two tests are similar in some regards, but they come with key differences. The RN exam emphasizes care management and assesses registered nurses' advanced scope of practice. The PN exam includes more questions about care coordination.

What are the formats for the NCLEX?

These formats include multiple choice, fill in the blank, ordered response, and/or hot spot questions. About 80-90% are multiple choice questions.

Does the NCLEX have pass fail?

Instead of offering a percentage-based grade, the NCLEX uses a pass-fail system. However, that system isn't quite as simple as it might sound. Not only does the NCLEX exam's computerized adaptive testing tailor questions to test takers' aptitudes, but it also determines the scoring process.

What is a NCLEX test plan?

The NCLEX test plans outline the content to be tested and guide the item writing process.

What is NCSBN certification?

NCSBN is dedicated to developing psychometrically sound and legally defensible nurse licensure and certification examinations consistent with current practice.

Why is the NCLEX exam important?

As you research the answers for “what is the NCLEX,” you come to learn that the reason the NCLEX exam is so important is because you cannot work as a nurse after graduating from nursing school without passing this exam. That’s right. Even after you graduate you still aren’t past the finish line just yet. You’ll need to register for the NCLEX exam ...

How does the NCLEX work?

So how does the NCLEX do this? The test uses a special exam format called computerized adaptive testing (CAT). CAT uses computer technology to more precisely determine your nursing ability. As you go through the exam questions, the computer reassesses your knowledge level and gives you another question based on how you answered the previous questions. Every time you answer a question, the computer is able to more accurately determine if your ability is high enough to pass.

What Kind of Questions Can I Expect to See on the NCLEX-RN Test?

You will see different levels of questions on the NCLEX-RN Examination.

What Is the NCLEX-RN?

According to National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc., "Beliefs about people and nursing underlie the NCLEX-RN Test Plan. People are finite beings with varying capacities to function in society. They are unique individuals who have defined systems of daily living reflecting their values, motives, and lifestyles. People have the right to make decisions regarding their health care needs and to participate in meeting those needs. The profession of nursing makes a unique contribution in helping clients (individual, family or group) achieve an optimal level of health in a variety of settings. For the purposes of the NCLEX examination, a client is defined as the individual, family or group which includes significant others and population.

How Long is the NCLEX-RN Examination?

The NCLEX-RN Examination is a variable-length computerized adaptive test . It is not offered in paper-and-pencil or oral examination formats.

What Will Happen on the Day You Take Your NCLEX-RN Examination?

In addition to your confidence and a well-rested body and mind, you must also bring personal identification that has your name which fully matches the name that you registered for the test, a recent photograph, AND your signature.

What do you get when you get done with the NCLEX?

When you are done with your NCLEX RN Examination, you will get a short survey questionnaire that will ask you about the experiences that you have had when checking into the testing site and during the entire time that you were in the testing center and the testing room.

What is the goal of nursing?

Nursing is a dynamic, continually evolving discipline that employs critical think­ing to integrate increasingly complex knowledge, skills, technologies, and client care activities into evidence-based nursing practice. The goal of nursing for client care is preventing illness and potential complications; protecting, promoting, restoring, and facilitating comfort; health; and dignity in dying.

How much does it cost to take the NCLEX?

The basic registration fee for the NCLEX-RN Examination is $200.00. Additional fees are required if you change the state board of nursing that you want to apply to after you have registered or if you change the language that you choose to use for the examination.

image

1.What Is the NCLEX? What You Need to Know About This …

Url:https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/nursing/blog/what-is-the-nclex/

18 hours ago NCLEX-RN Exam and Licensure Fees. The cost to take the NCLEX-RN ® exam is $200. Additional licensure fees are determined by the individual State Boards of Nursing. Send your completed …

2.What is the NCLEX-RN®? - All about NCLEX Exam

Url:https://www.kaptest.com/nclex/what-is-the-nclex-rn

23 hours ago The NCLEX exam, also known as the National Council Licensure Examination, is used by state boards of nursing to decide whether or not a candidate is ready to begin practicing as an entry …

3.What is NCLEX? - Study.com

Url:https://study.com/academy/popular/what-is-nclex.html

6 hours ago  · The NCLEX-RN is for those wanting to be RNs and the NCLEX-PN is for those wanting to be LPNs. As you research the answers for “what is the NCLEX,” you come to learn …

4.6 Things to Know About the Current NCLEX Exam

Url:https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/

19 hours ago The NCLEX-RN is the test to become a licensed Registered Nurse while the NCLEX-PN is the test to become a Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse. While both nurses will …

5.NCLEX & Other Exams | NCSBN

Url:https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.htm

5 hours ago The NCLEX is the world’s premier licensure exam and uses computerized adaptive testing (CAT) technology to deliver the exam, ensuring a valid and reliable measurement of nursing …

6.What Is NCLEX? Your Complete Guide to the NCLEX Exam

Url:https://dailynclexchallenge.com/blog/what-is-nclex/

22 hours ago Candidates are encouraged to review the NCLEX test plans before their exam appointment. The test plans contain in-depth information regarding exam content, exam administration and item …

7.What is the NCLEX-RN Exam? - Princeton Review

Url:https://www.princetonreview.com/professional/nclex-rn-exam-overview

12 hours ago

8.NCLEX-RN Exam - RegisteredNursing.org

Url:https://www.registerednursing.org/nclex/

28 hours ago

9.Home | NCLEX

Url:https://nclex.com/index.htm

24 hours ago

10.Test Plans | NCLEX - NCSBN

Url:https://www.nclex.com/test-plans.htm

34 hours ago

11.Videos of What Is on the NCLEX Exam

Url:/videos/search?q=what+is+on+the+nclex+exam&qpvt=what+is+on+the+nclex+exam&FORM=VDRE

7 hours ago

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9