Abstract
The author describes the changes in the 2004 NCLEX-RN(R) Test Plan and provides information about the alternate item formats that are being developed for the NCLEX examination. Nursing educators will learn details about the new test plan and review sample alternate items. Information from this article can be used for curriculum review and to prepare students to take the NCLEX examination.
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) charts the course of nursing practice by determining the knowledge, skills, and abilities (competencies) needed by the newly licensed nurse to practice safely and effectively. As the developer of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN(R) examination), NCSBN maintains the currency of the examination via a survey of entry-level practitioners to make certain the newly licensed nurse is tested on the expectations of current practice. With continuous changes in healthcare and nursing practice, the NCSBN must ensure that the NCLEX-RN examination reflects the competencies required of newly licensed nurses.