NCLEX-PN Exam Guide

About NCLEX-PN Test

The NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) is a standardized exam required for those seeking to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in the United States. The exam assesses candidates' ability to make safe and effective decisions in the healthcare setting.

Test Format: Nature, Length, and Structure

The NCLEX-PN is a computerized adaptive test (CAT) that adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the test-taker's ability. The number of questions can range from 85 to 205, including 15 non-scored pretest questions. The maximum time allowed is 5 hours.

Subjects Covered in the NCLEX-PN Test

1. Safe and Effective Care Environment: Coordinating care and infection control.
2. Health Promotion and Maintenance: Growth and development across the lifespan and prevention/detection of health problems.
3. Psychosocial Integrity: Coping and adaptation and psychosocial adaptation.
4. Physiological Integrity: Basic care and comfort, pharmacological therapies, reduction of risk potential, and physiological adaptation.

Scoring System of the NCLEX-PN Test

The NCLEX-PN employs a pass/fail scoring system. Unlike traditional exams, it does not have a numerical score or percentage. The test uses a Computer Adaptive Testing approach to gauge the competence level throughout the examination.

Preparation and Study Resources

1. Understanding Test Format: Familiarizing yourself with the test's adaptive nature and question types is crucial.
2. Practice Tests: Engaging with online practice tests can help you get accustomed to the format and question styles.
3. Study Guides and Courses: Utilizing online courses and study guides that offer comprehensive preparation materials is beneficial.
4. NCSBN Learning Extension: Considering courses offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing can be very helpful.

Test Difficulty and Scoring

1. Test Difficulty: The level of difficulty is personalized as it adapts to your performance. The initial questions are of average difficulty, and based on your responses, subsequent questions will adjust in difficulty.
2. Scoring Interpretation: Since the NCLEX-PN is a pass/fail exam, scoring is based on meeting the minimum standard of competence. If the computer determines with 95% confidence that a candidate's performance is above the passing standard, they pass; otherwise, they fail.

Test Format and Content

1. Adaptive Nature: The test adapts the question difficulty depending on your answers to accurately measure your competence level.
2. Question Types: Includes multiple-choice, multiple response, fill-in-the-blank, drag and drop, and hot spot questions.

Test Logistics

1. Use of Personal Items: Check with your test center regarding the use of personal items.
2. Retaking the Test: If you do not pass, you can retake the test after a 45-day waiting period, up to 8 times per year.
3. Test Day Requirements: Bring a legal photo ID and any special materials as required.
4. Disability Accommodations: Contact the National Council of State Boards of Nursing in advance if you need accommodations.

FAQs

Can I use a calculator during the NCLEX-PN test?

A basic on-screen calculator will be provided for use during the exam.

Is it possible to retake the NCLEX-PN if I'm not satisfied with my score?

Yes, candidates can retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period, up to eight times per year.

Can the NCLEX-PN test be taken online?

The NCLEX-PN is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers, not online. However, there are many online resources available for preparation.