If you’re a nursing student, you probably know all about the NCLEX. The big test you’ll take at the end of your program determines whether or not you can practice nursing. It’s important to prepare for the next-gen NCLEX well to improve your chances of passing. And if you’re not a nursing student? Well, you should still know about it because it’s basically what every nurse must pass before they can work in the field.
The thing is, though, the NCLEX has been around since 1982 and hasn’t changed much over the past few decades. That is, until now: The new NCLEX format 2023 has been announced!
NGN is a revolutionary change from previous versions of this test, which means that nurses everywhere have to learn how to take it—including those who have been practicing for years and years!
We’ve written this guide because we know how stressful taking an exam like this can be. But don’t worry: we’re here for you! We’ve got everything you need to know about The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) so that you’ll be ready as ever when test day comes around.
What is the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?
The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) is the new NCLEX format. The NGN is supposed to be more in line with what students are learning in nursing school, and it’s designed to ensure that test-takers have the knowledge they need to succeed in the real world.
The NGN is set to launch in 2023, and there is a lot of anticipation around it. Many people are wondering if this will be the end of the traditional NCLEX exam, or if it will just be an alternative version.
It’s important to remember that no one knows precisely how this new test will work! It could be different from what you’re used to, so if you’re planning on taking it soon, now would be a good time to start studying!
Why is NCLEX changing in 2023?
NCLEX Exam is changing because the world is changing. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a national nursing exam that has been used since 1982 to test the competency of nurses who have graduated from accredited nursing programs.
Since its inception, it has undergone several changes and revisions. In 2012-2013, the test was updated to reflect new standards set by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This change was made because the NCSBN wanted to ensure that all nurses had access to training and education to prepare them for practice.
Now, in 2023, we’re seeing another shift in the way nursing exams are structured as well as how they are scored.
The reason for this change? To make sure that nurses are prepared for what’s ahead: more virtual and remote learning environments; greater emphasis on community health; greater emphasis on patient communication; and more opportunities for nurses who are interested in working internationally or with internationally-focused organizations.
This doesn’t mean you need to worry about taking an entirely new exam! Your knowledge base will still be tested—just in new ways in the next-gen NCLEX.
What Is Changing In Next-Gen NCLEX?
Next-gen NCLEX will consist of real-life case scenarios to help nurses in decision-making.
Along with case scenarios, five different types of questions are being added to the next-generation NCLEX questions. They are designed to test clinical judgment and decision-making skills.
Here’s a list of five different types of questions that are being added:
Extended Multiple Response
The Extended Multiple Response (EMR) question type aka Select All That Applies, aka SATA, is the most flexible question format available and also one that most students dread. It allows exam-takers to choose more than one of the listed answer options while still having partial credit available for the answer they select.
This format aligns with what nurses will see in a clinical setting, allowing them to demonstrate an understanding of how to evaluate and treat patients in a variety of settings.
Extended Drag and Drop
Similar to the current NCLEX-ordered response items, extended drag and drop allows you to drag and drop items into the correct order.
However, in the new NCLEX format 2023, there is no need to drag all the items into the correct order. You can drag as many or as few of them as necessary.
Cloze (Drop-Down)
Cloze is a type of drop-down question that presents a sentence or part of a sentence, with one blank space left for you to fill in. The possible responses appear in a drop-down list.
Enhanced Hot Spot (Highlighting)
This format allows exam-takers to highlight words and phrases from a patient’s medical record to answer questions, including medication, lab reports, diagnoses, history of present illness, and past medical history.
Matrix/Grid
Matrix and grid questions will test your ability to choose one or more options in rows and columns. You may be asked to select a single answer, or you may be asked to choose from multiple answers. Examinees can address more than one aspect of a client’s situation using a matrix question.
Is The Next Generation NCLEX Harder?
Yes, the next generation NCLEX is going to be harder as it contains more in-depth questions and real-life scenarios. It’s going to be more challenging than ever before. But, it’s still possible to pass.
The NCLEX is tough. It’s one of the toughest tests you’ll ever take. But, it’s not impossible. And it’s not getting any easier, either. The test will only get more challenging as time goes on because that’s what happens when you’re training future nurses.
You have to make sure they’re ready for anything, which means testing them on everything they could encounter in practice.
When Is The Next Generation NCLEX Being Released?
The date for the release of the next generation NCLEX has not been announced yet. However, it is expected to be released sometime in 2023. Stay tuned for more updates!
What Do I Need To Do To Prepare For The Next Generation NCLEX?
If you’re a nursing student or a recent graduate, you might be wondering what you need to do to prepare for the next-gen NCLEX. The best way to prepare is to use practice questions. A lot of practice questions.
You can find practice questions online, in nursing review books, and study guides. There are also plenty of apps that offer practice questions. And, of course, you can always ask your nursing friends and family members to quiz you.
Another way to prepare for the next-gen NCLEX is to take a review course. Review courses are offered by many different companies and organizations, and they can be incredibly helpful in preparing for the exam.
Finally, make sure you understand the material inside and out. The best way to do this is to attend your classes, take good notes, and study regularly. If you can master the material in your nursing classes, you’ll be well on your way to passing the NCLEX.
Conclusion – The Next Generation NCLEX!
So there you have it! All the information you need to know about the Next Generation NCLEX.
The Next Generation NCLEX is designed to be more like a real-life nursing situation and less like an exam. It will take some getting used to, but once you do, it should feel more natural and less stressful.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the Next Generation NCLEX and that it enables you to feel better prepared for the big day!
