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The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) to determine whether or not a candidate is prepared to begin working as an entry-level nurse.

Nursing students will be tested on multiple topics to gauge their level of clinical judgment to work as an entry level nurse. The question topics and their distribution can be found in the NCSBN NCLEX test plan.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing publishes a plan to help candidates prepare for the exam. The plan provides a list of topics that will be covered on the exam. The plan is updated every three years to reflect new test material. Familiarize yourself with NCSBN.org as it has helpful information to assist you in preparing for NCLEX.

Clinical judgment is linked to 46% of tasks performed by entry-level nurses, and nearly half of all novice nurses are involved in a nursing care error. Clinical judgment skills aren’t just important; they’re crucial to your success as a nurse.

First, take your studies during nursing school seriously. Dig deeper into your clinical experiences and always pay close attention to understanding all there is to know about every patient you care for.

Registering for the NCLEX is a 2-step process.

1. Submit an application for licensure to the nursing regulatory body. Once you are declared eligible you will receive an authorization to test email.
2. Register for the exam with Pearson VUE. This can be done online or by telephone.

Once you schedule your exam you’ll want to be sure you have a physical, up-to-date government-issued ID with a photograph, full name, identification and signature and make sure you use the same name though the entire registration process. You’ll also need a valid email address for test correspondence and access. You can review all the details such as fees, payment options, refund policy, scheduling/changing your exam on NCSBN.org

It’s important to know the NCLEX rules regarding confidentiality, personal items, and breaks. You get a good idea of what to expect from the NCSBN website. Some other helpful things to remember are:

1. Have your government-issued photo ID
2. Dress comfortably
3. Arrive at least 30 minutes early
4. Do not bring phone, paper, books, calculator or any other materials.
5. Food and drink are not allowed in the testing room, but can be accessed on breaks.

The most important tip is to be prepared. Don’t wait to familiarize yourself with the exam until right before test day. Know the content you’re going to be tested on and take as many practice-like exams as possible.