The NCLEX-PN is a computer-based test for practical nurses that is graded on a pass/fail basis. Applicants can take up to 5 hours to complete the test. In order to pass the exam, you must answer between 85 and 205 questions. The number of questions you will be asked depends on the number of questions you answer correctly. You will be given questions until you get a certain number wrong. The NCLEX-PN exam is similar to the exam taken by RNs in certain respects. The exam covers four basic areas of knowledge and ten subcategories. In order to prepare for the exam you should have all study materials in hand in advance of the test. You can purchase books that have questions from past tests. Start studying by looking closely at your notes from nursing school or college. The subjects covered on the test should have been covered in class. Read textbooks closely. Take practice tests. Figure out where your areas of weakness are and concentrate in those areas.
Registered nurses must also take a standardized state exam in order to be licensed. The NCLEX-RN exam covers the same areas as the NCLEX-PN exam, only at a more advanced level. You have 5 hours to complete the exam and can expect to see between 75 and 265 questions. As is true with the NCLEX-PN, you will be given questions until you get a certain number wrong. Expect to be questioned on the following areas during the exam: health promotion and maintenance, safe effective care environment, psychosocial integrity, physiological integrity, basic care and comfort, pharmacological therapies, reduction of risk potential, and physiological adaptation. Form a study group to help review materials studied during nursing school. Take timed practice tests. Gather all textbooks and review materials at least a month in advance of the test.
Remember each exam can be taken multiple times, if necessary. Between 12 and 15 percent of all students who take the NCLEX do not pass it on the first try. If you have completed a nursing course, much of the material will be very familiar and easy to understand. All answers are multiple choice. Your responses will not affect your ability to graduate from nursing school, apply for a promotion or get admitted to graduate school. Make sure have you a good breakfast on the day of the exam and dress comfortably.