Self-Assessment

Before you take this Self-Assessment exam, let’s talk about the concerns you might have:

• Am I required to answer all 205 questions to pass?

  No. If you run out of time, the computer looks at the last 60 items. If the candidate is consistently above the pass point on the last 60 items, a passing report is registered.

• What score do I have to make to pass the NCLEX-PN^® Exam?

  There is not a set score. When you were in nursing school, you might have been required to score 75% or 80% to pass and progress onto the next level. The licensure exam is not scored in percentages. The computer looks for consistency above or below the pass point. When the candidate shows this consistency, the computer stops asking questions.

• How do they develop the test plan?

  Every 3 years a survey is sent out to approximately 4,000 newly licensed nurses. These nurses are asked questions based on the Activity Statements for nursing practice. Based on the results of the survey, the test plan is set by the National Council and members of the Licensure Committee. These members are appointed from representative states.

• What types of questions will I be asked?

  The majority of questions are multiple-choice; however, alternative items are also a portion of the exam. These items are fill-in-the-blank, identify-a-diagram, place-in-sequence, or check-all-that-apply questions. Some examples of these are shown here:

  1. Figure the 8-hour intake and output.

  2. Identify the area where the mitral valve is heard the loudest.

  3. Place in sequence the tasks that you would use in the skill of washing your hands.

  4. Work the math problem.

  5. Check all that apply to the care of the client after a cardiac catheterization.

• Will I have a calculator for math problems?

  Yes, a drop-down calculator is provided.

• Will I have something to write on in the testing area?

  Yes, a magic slate or paper will be provided. Don’t worry about them thinking you are cheating. They clean and secure the area after each candidate.

• What if I get sick and cannot take my exam?

  You have a period of time allowed during which you can cancel your appointment and reschedule. If, however, you do not contact your Pearson VUE testing center in that allotted time and do not attend to take the exam, you forfeit your money and must reapply.

• Can I carry a purse or bag into the testing center?

  No, there will be lockers for your use in the testing center. Also, be sure to dress warmly because the area is usually cool.

• Can I take breaks?

  There are optional breaks throughout the test.

• If I should fail, when could I retest?

  The required time for rewriting the exam is 45 days in most states. If you are unsuccessful, you should contact the state where you want to obtain licensure for its required retest time.