Please note that this blog is the fifth in a six part series. You can read the earlier posts here: Part 1: How to make sure you’re ready for anything, Part 2: Operationally Speaking, Part 3: the BIG day, and Part 4: Rules and Regulations (during and after the test).
Why the NCLEX? To assure that you have what it takes to be an entry level nurse…..
The practice of nursing requires knowledge of the health needs of clients as well as an understanding of integrated processes fundamental to nursing practice. Client Needs are used as the framework for both RN and PN test plans. NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN examinations may include items written at various cognitive levels. The majority of items are written at the application or higher levels of cognitive ability. In general, if the age or age category of the client is not stated in an item, it can be understood that the client is an adult.
The computer’s goal during the NCLEX is to determine the ability of the candidate in relation to the passing standard. Every time the candidate answers an item, the computer uses adaptive testing to re-estimates the candidate’s ability. With each additional answered item, the ability estimate becomes more precise. The computer will continue to provide questions until it can determine a test-takers level with 95% confidence, until the test-taker reaches the maximum number of questions, or until the test-taker reaches the maximum time limit.
Test-takers will receive alternate question types and experimental questions in small “doses.” Candidates may observe that some questions are similar in nature. This is not necessarily an indication of an incorrect previous answer but may be a result of these varied formats. Candidates should always answer the question at hand to the best of their ability and not draw comparisons to previous questions. Random guessing is never encouraged. With proper preparation, a candidate will be able to eliminate choices based on sound critical thinking.
The NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN Test Plans are documents that describe the scope and content of the examinations. The NCLEX Test Plans can be downloaded at no cost on the NCSBN website at: www.ncsbn.org/1287.htm.
Author’s note—you can read the sixth and final part of this blog series here: Part 6: Text Anxiety.
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