What You Need to Know About Nursing Education and the NCLEX Exam

One of the most important steps toward becoming a nurse is passing the NCLEX exam. This test is used by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing as a measure of competency for entry-level registered nurses, and it is a requirement for licensure in all 50 states. But what do you need to know about nursing education and the NCLEX in order to pass? Read on to learn more. What’s the NCLEX Exam? The NCLEX exam is a computer adaptive test (CAT) that measures a student’s knowledge and skills in providing safe and effective patient care. The exam consists of four sections: physiological integrity (safe medical care), safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, and psychosocial integrity. The test also covers pharmacological therapies as well as management of care. What Kind of Education Do I Need to Pass the NCLEX? In order to pass the NCLEX exam, you need a minimum of a diploma, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You must have taken and passed an accredited nursing program in order to be eligible to apply to take the exam. There are many nursing programs available from traditional schools, online schools, and accelerated programs. If you’re already a registered nurse and want to obtain an advanced degree, you can take the NCLEX to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP). An NP has more autonomy than a traditional RN and is responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses and diseases. What’s the Best Way to Prepare for the NCLEX Exam? The best way to prepare for the NCLEX exam is to complete a course of study specifically designed for the NCLEX. It’s important to understand that each state board of nursing has its own requirements for passing the NCLEX exam, so it’s important to review the material specific to your state. Some states require classes in specialties such as pediatrics or gerontology. In addition to classroom instruction, taking practice tests and using study guides is essential. Practice questions help you familiarize yourself with the format of the NCLEX and allow you to identify areas in which you need to study more in-depth. A study guide provides a comprehensive overview of the topics covered on the exam. What Else Do I Need to Know About the NCLEX Exam? Time management is an important factor when taking the NCLEX exam. The total allotted time for the test is six hours, but the majority of students finish in about three to five hours. Make sure to read the question thoroughly and plan your answer before attempting to answer. Be sure to double check your answers before moving on to the next question. It’s also important to understand the different types of questions that can appear on the NCLEX exam. The exam contains multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, and complex case studies. Additionally, make sure you understand the process for retaking the test should you fail the first time. Passing the NCLEX exam is a crucial step in becoming a nurse. Preparing ahead of time and understanding your state’s requirements are key elements to success. With a solid education and rigorous preparation, you’ll be ready to pass the NCLEX and begin your journey as a nurse.