For decades, the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) has served as the cornerstone for ensuring that nurses meet the standards necessary to practice safely and effectively. With healthcare practices evolving at an unprecedented pace, it was only a matter of time before the NCLEX exam underwent significant changes. Enter the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)—a bold, innovative shift in nursing assessments set to launch in April 2023.
The NGN marks a fundamental transformation in how nursing competence is assessed. This article takes a deep dive into the reasons behind the NGN’s creation, its anticipated structure, and how it promises to shape the future of nursing education and practice.
The Rationale Behind the NGN: Why Change Was Necessary
The idea of overhauling the NCLEX stemmed from an extensive practice analysis conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This analysis is a regular, comprehensive study aimed at understanding how newly licensed nurses interact with the healthcare environment. The study surveyed nurses across the United States to assess the frequency and importance of nursing tasks to patient safety and effective care delivery.
One of the key findings was that newly licensed nurses frequently work in complex settings such as medical-surgical units, critical care, and emergency departments, where rapid decision-making and advanced clinical judgment are crucial. Unfortunately, the traditional NCLEX format was no longer seen as fully capable of assessing these higher-order thinking skills. For instance, much of the older exams focused on knowledge recall rather than the application of clinical judgment in real-world situations.
As healthcare itself becomes more complex, with advancements in medical technology, interprofessional collaboration, and an increasingly diverse patient population, the need for nurses who can think critically, make informed decisions, and solve problems in real-time is more important than ever. The NGN was introduced to ensure that the exam accurately reflects these competencies.
Key Features of the Next Generation NCLEX
The NGN brings several significant changes to the format and content of the NCLEX exam. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable features that set the NGN apart from its predecessor:
1. Case Studies: A More Dynamic Assessment of Clinical Judgment
One of the most revolutionary changes in the NGN is the introduction of case studies. For the first time, candidates will be presented with interactive case studies designed to replicate the complexities of real-life clinical scenarios.
Each case study will consist of a series of six questions that explore a specific patient situation. These questions will challenge the examinee to engage in critical thinking and apply their knowledge to dynamic, real-world scenarios. By presenting a sequence of questions related to one case, the NGN encourages examinees to think critically about patient care and nursing interventions, reflecting how a nurse would respond in an actual healthcare setting.
For example, an examinee might be given a case involving a patient with multiple comorbidities. The case study could evolve, presenting new information such as lab results, changes in the patient’s condition, or a shift in clinical priorities. The candidate will then need to reassess the situation, adjust their approach, and select appropriate interventions. This method highlights the NGN’s emphasis on clinical judgment—a skill that is essential for safe nursing practice.
2. Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM)
The Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) is a key component of the NGN. This model redefines how clinical judgment is assessed, focusing not just on factual knowledge but on the ability to make informed, reasoned decisions in a variety of clinical settings.
The CJMM outlines a series of steps that nurses typically follow in the decision-making process, such as data collection, data analysis, identifying problems, setting priorities, and implementing interventions. In the NGN, candidates will be evaluated on their ability to make decisions that prioritize patient safety and deliver optimal care. This focus on clinical reasoning rather than rote memorization is a crucial shift in how nursing competence is evaluated.
How Will This Impact Nursing Education?
The introduction of the NGN will significantly affect nursing education programs. To align with the new exam, nursing educators will need to adapt their curricula to emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and clinical decision-making. This move away from simple content memorization towards a more holistic approach to nursing education will better prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare.
In addition to theoretical knowledge, simulation-based learning and scenario-based assessments will become more integral in nursing programs. This shift aligns with the evidence-based practice already emphasized in healthcare and underscores the importance of preparing students for the unpredictable nature of patient care.
Educators will be tasked with fostering environments that encourage students to practice clinical judgment in safe, controlled settings, preparing them to face high-pressure situations on the exam and in their careers.
Implications for Nurses and Future Candidates
The NGN will fundamentally change the landscape of the NCLEX and how future nurses approach the exam. Candidates will need to prepare not only by learning facts but also by honing their ability to think critically and make sound decisions under pressure. This shift will demand more from aspiring nurses, requiring them to practice clinical judgment and master the art of problem-solving rather than relying on memorized responses.
For candidates who have previously been accustomed to traditional study methods, the new NGN format might initially seem daunting. However, those who embrace these changes will be better equipped for the challenges they will face as licensed nurses. The NGN is designed to reflect the realities of modern nursing, preparing graduates for a career that involves ongoing learning, adaptive thinking, and patient-centered care.
A Future-Oriented Exam for a New Era in Nursing
The NCLEX Next Generation (NGN) represents a paradigm shift in the way nursing competence is assessed. The inclusion of case studies, the focus on clinical judgment, and the introduction of the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) reflect the changing nature of healthcare and the growing need for nurses who can adapt quickly to complex situations.
As the NGN takes shape and nursing educators begin to adapt their curricula to this new format, it is clear that the NCLEX is evolving to meet the demands of the future. For aspiring nurses, understanding these changes and preparing accordingly will be essential. Ultimately, the NGN will better equip nurses to provide safe, high-quality care in a rapidly changing healthcare environment, ensuring that the profession continues to thrive and meet the needs of patients everywhere.
Decoding the New NCLEX Test Plans: What Aspiring Nurses Need to Know
As the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) approaches its official launch in April 2023, aspiring nurses must familiarize themselves with the new test plans that outline the structure and content of the exam. These updates are crucial for understanding the shift in focus and preparation requirements. In December 2022, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) released the updated NCLEX test plans, which reflect both a change in assessment methodology and a shift toward more clinical judgment-based evaluation.
While many areas of the NCLEX will remain familiar, there are key adjustments that will significantly impact how the exam is approached. This article explores these changes in depth, providing clarity on the updated content areas, the integration of the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM), and the implications for both current and future nursing students.
Adjustments in Content Areas: A Clearer Focus on Safety and Clinical Judgment
One of the most notable adjustments in the new NCLEX test plans is the reorganization of content areas. The content of the exam remains largely similar, but with increased emphasis on certain areas that are now more integral to modern nursing practice. These include safety, infection control, and clinical judgment—all of which have become increasingly important in healthcare environments, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Management of Care: A Shift Toward Delegation and Collaboration
For Registered Nurses (RNs), one of the most significant changes is in the Management of Care section. While this area will still be assessed, there will be a slight reduction in questions related to direct management tasks, such as those involving day-to-day patient care administration. This adjustment reflects the increasing delegation of managerial tasks to other healthcare professionals, such as nursing supervisors or healthcare administrators. The focus of this section will be more on delegation and collaboration, highlighting the necessity for nurses to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and to delegate tasks efficiently.
Safety and Infection Control: A More Prominent Role
In contrast, the Safety and Infection Control category will see an increase in weight on the NCLEX. The emphasis on patient safety has always been a cornerstone of nursing practice, but the recent global health challenges have underscored its critical importance. The new NCLEX will reflect this heightened concern by including more questions related to infection prevention and patient safety protocols, such as those about personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization techniques, and handling infectious diseases. This change ensures that nurses entering the workforce are well-prepared to prevent and manage healthcare-associated infections and ensure patient safety at all stages of care.
The Clinical Judgment Focus: Transitioning from Knowledge Recall to Decision-Making
The most impactful change in the test plans involves the Clinical Judgment component, a direct response to the growing recognition that nursing practice requires critical thinking and decision-making in addition to knowledge retention. The Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) has been integrated into the exam’s framework, reflecting a more holistic approach to assessing nursing competence.
Instead of focusing purely on memorized facts or simple knowledge recall, the NGN will now measure how effectively a nurse can assess a situation, prioritize interventions, analyze clinical data, and make sound decisions in real-time. This transition emphasizes a more dynamic evaluation of clinical skills, ensuring that nurses are capable of handling the complexities and unpredictability of modern healthcare settings.
Exploring the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM)
A pivotal feature of the NGN, the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM), is designed to assess the core competencies required for effective decision-making in nursing practice. The CJMM is an evidence-based framework that prioritizes four key areas of clinical judgment:
- Noticing: Recognizing significant patterns or changes in the patient’s condition. This requires the nurse to be attuned to subtle signs and to gather pertinent information.
- Interpreting: Making sense of the data gathered during patient assessment. It involves synthesizing information and recognizing how it fits within the broader clinical picture.
- Responding: Deciding on and implementing an appropriate course of action based on the patient’s condition and priorities. This requires clinical reasoning and collaboration with the healthcare team.
- Reflecting: Evaluating the effectiveness of the interventions and adjusting care plans accordingly. This step ensures continuous improvement in practice and patient outcomes.
These four areas will be central to many of the case study questions featured in the NGN, where examinees will be asked to demonstrate their ability to move through these stages in real-time, mimicking the workflow of a nurse in a clinical setting.
Updated Question Formats: Moving Beyond Multiple Choice
While the multiple-choice format will remain a core feature of the NCLEX, the introduction of new question types will significantly alter the testing landscape. The NGN will incorporate a combination of newly designed case studies, select-all-that-apply questions, and fill-in-the-blank scenarios, which are tailored to assess clinical judgment, decision-making, and the ability to prioritize interventions.
Case Studies: A Multi-Question Approach
The case study format will be one of the most significant changes in the NGN. A typical case study will consist of six interrelated questions based on a single patient scenario. The examinee will be required to make a series of clinical decisions, demonstrating their ability to analyze patient data, prioritize actions, and predict outcomes. As the scenario progresses, the examinee’s decisions will be tested as new information is provided, reflecting how nurses must continually adapt their approach to changing patient conditions.
For example, a case study might present a patient with fluctuating vital signs, requiring the examinee to assess the data, identify the most critical issue, and select the most appropriate interventions. As the scenario progresses, the examinee’s decisions will be tested as new information is provided, reflecting how nurses must continually adapt their approach to changing patient conditions.
Select-All-That-Apply Questions: Testing Depth of Knowledge
The Select-All-That-Apply (SATA) questions will remain a prominent feature of the NGN. These questions assess a candidate’s ability to think critically and recognize multiple correct answers. Unlike traditional multiple-choice questions, SATA questions test the depth of understanding and the ability to apply knowledge to varied clinical situations. For instance, a SATA question may ask which interventions are appropriate for a patient in a particular scenario, with more than one correct answer.
Preparing for the NGN: A Strategic Approach
As the NGN introduces new formats and content areas, nursing students must adjust their preparation strategies accordingly. Traditional study methods, such as rote memorization of facts, will not be enough to succeed in this new environment. Instead, students must focus on developing their clinical judgment and problem-solving abilities.
- Simulation-Based Learning: Given the increased focus on clinical judgment, nursing students should engage in more simulation-based learning. These simulations allow students to practice critical thinking in safe, controlled settings that mirror real-world clinical situations. By participating in realistic scenarios, students will gain confidence in their ability to respond effectively to patient needs.
- Case Study Practice: Aspiring nurses should dedicate time to practicing case studies and decision-making exercises. Many review books and online resources now offer mock case studies designed to mirror the NGN’s format, providing students with a taste of the real exam experience.
- Collaborative Learning: Nursing students should also seek opportunities for collaborative learning, where they can discuss complex cases, debate interventions, and analyze different approaches to patient care. This helps to hone their clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.
Embracing the New NCLEX Test Plans
The updates to the NCLEX test plans reflect the ongoing evolution of nursing as a profession. By placing greater emphasis on clinical judgment and patient safety, the NGN ensures that nurses are better prepared to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. As nursing education shifts to meet these new standards, students will need to embrace a more holistic approach to learning, focusing not just on knowledge recall but on developing the critical thinking and decision-making skills that are essential in today’s complex clinical environments.
Navigating NCLEX Changes: Essential Strategies for Success in the NGN Era
With the official launch of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) exam now on the horizon, nursing students and educators alike must adapt to the evolving demands of the exam. The NCLEX, long regarded as the gateway to becoming a licensed nurse, is undergoing significant transformation, shifting from traditional question formats to more dynamic and clinically focused assessments. For aspiring nurses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity to refine their critical thinking, clinical judgment, and decision-making skills. In this third part of our series, we’ll explore strategic approaches to excelling in the NGN, offering practical advice, tips, and insights that will help students prepare for the updated NCLEX
Understanding the Role of Clinical Judgment in NCLEX Success
Clinical judgment will play a central role in the Next Generation NCLEX, marking a substantial departure from traditional knowledge-based assessments. This shift underscores the importance of not only having foundational knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge in real-life clinical situations. To succeed in the NGN, nursing students must develop their capacity for clinical judgment, a skill that involves assessing patient conditions, recognizing patterns, and making informed decisions that directly impact patient outcomes.
The Four Pillars of Clinical Judgment
As mentioned in Part 2, the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) is a cornerstone of the NGN, and it highlights four key components: noticing, interpreting, responding, and reflecting. For nursing students, these four pillars provide a roadmap to enhancing clinical reasoning skills:
- Noticing involves recognizing cues that indicate potential issues with a patient’s condition. It requires attentiveness and an understanding of how different symptoms or patient history points to a possible diagnosis.
- Interpreting is the process of making sense of the data collected during patient assessment, identifying patterns, and using clinical knowledge to decide what this information signifies.
- Responding entails taking appropriate action based on the interpretation of the data, which might include implementing interventions or initiating care protocols.
- Reflecting is the ability to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions and adjust the plan of care as necessary, ensuring continuous learning and improvement.
By familiarizing themselves with these four pillars, students can begin to approach clinical scenarios more thoughtfully and with greater confidence, focusing not just on textbook knowledge but on how to translate that knowledge into real-world applications.
Enhancing Test-Taking Skills for NGN Question Formats
The NGN will feature new question formats that differ significantly from traditional multiple-choice questions. To be prepared, students need to adjust their test-taking strategies and practice answering a wider range of question types. Below are some specific strategies to help students navigate these new formats effectively:
Mastering Case Studies
Case studies will be an integral part of the NGN, offering multi-question scenarios based on a single patient case. These case studies are designed to assess the examinee’s ability to think critically and make decisions in real time, just as they would in a clinical setting. The key to mastering case studies lies in understanding the patient’s condition in-depth and following the progression of the case.
- Focus on Patient Priorities: In case study questions, prioritize the most pressing issues. Is the patient in immediate danger? Is there a critical change in their condition that requires urgent intervention? This prioritization process is essential to demonstrating strong clinical judgment.
- Track Progression: Case studies often evolve over several questions. Keep track of the patient’s condition and how your answers affect their outcomes. Think about how your decisions might influence the next step in the clinical scenario.
Handling Select-All-That-Apply (SATA) Questions
Select-All-That-Apply questions will remain a hallmark of the NGN, and students will need to be adept at recognizing which interventions, actions, or facts are appropriate for a given scenario. The key to answering these questions is knowing that multiple answers can be correct.
- Consider All Possible Answers: Don’t rush to pick the first correct answer you identify. Carefully review all options before making a selection. Sometimes, a seemingly minor detail in a scenario can change the answer.
- Think Critically About Clinical Implications: SATA questions test your ability to recognize multiple correct interventions in a clinical context. Evaluate each option for its potential impact on the patient’s care, and select the answers that reflect best practices or the most appropriate nursing actions.
Navigating New Question Types
Beyond traditional multiple-choice and SAT questions, the NGN will feature other question formats, including fill-in-the-blank scenarios and hot spot questions. These question types are designed to test clinical reasoning, and students must become comfortable with these new formats.
- Fill-in-the-Blank Questions: These will test your ability to recall key terms and concepts in the context of clinical decision-making. Practice recalling vital nursing terms, medications, and interventions that could be applied in various clinical situations.
- Hot Spot Questions: These questions require students to click on specific areas of a diagram or image. They are often used to assess knowledge of anatomical locations or clinical procedures, such as administering injections or identifying signs of a stroke. Practice identifying and clicking on various parts of images and diagrams to prepare for this format.
Integrating Evidence-Based Practice in NCLEX Preparation
With the growing importance of clinical judgment, the Next Generation NCLEX places an increased emphasis on evidence-based practice (EBP). Nurses are expected to apply the most current research findings to their clinical decisions, ensuring that patient care is based on proven, best-practice interventions. EBP involves using clinical expertise, patient preferences, and the latest scientific evidence to guide treatment decisions.
Focusing on Research and Evidence-Based Interventions
Students preparing for the NGN should focus on familiarizing themselves with the principles of evidence-based practice and the latest research relevant to nursing care. Understanding key studies, clinical guidelines, and treatment protocols will be invaluable when answering questions related to patient care and clinical judgment.
- Critical Evaluation of Research: Being able to critically evaluate research studies and their applicability to different clinical scenarios will enhance a student’s ability to interpret and respond to case studies and other question types that assess clinical decision-making.
- Apply Best Practices: As part of their preparation, nursing students should familiarize themselves with up-to-date guidelines and protocols for common nursing interventions, such as pain management, wound care, and medication administration. The ability to apply evidence-based practices in real-time will be crucial for success on the NGN.
Creating a Balanced Study Plan
With the complexity of the NGN, students must create a balanced and comprehensive study plan that includes both theoretical learning and practical application. Here are some strategies for effective preparation:
- Set Realistic Goals: Begin by breaking down the content into manageable sections. Focus on one clinical area at a time, whether it’s pharmacology, pediatrics, or patient safety. Setting clear and specific goals for each study session will help you stay on track and ensure you cover all necessary material.
- Utilize NCLEX Review Resources: There is a wealth of NCLEX review books, online courses, and practice exams available to help students prepare. Make use of these resources to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you will encounter on the NGN.
- Simulate Testing Conditions: To build confidence and reduce test anxiety, simulate real testing conditions by taking full-length practice exams. These will help you gauge your progress, identify areas for improvement, and refine your test-taking strategies.
- Embracing the Future of Nursing Assessments: The transition to the Next Generation NCLEX marks a significant shift in how aspiring nurses will be assessed. With a heightened focus on clinical judgment, decision-making, and evidence-based practice, the NGN ensures that nursing candidates are better equipped to handle the complexities of modern healthcare. By adjusting study strategies, practicing new question formats, and honing clinical reasoning skills, nursing students can set themselves up for success in this new era of nursing exams.
As nursing education evolves to meet the demands of the NGN, students must remain adaptable and committed to continuous learning. With the right preparation and mindset, success on the NGN is well within reach.
The Path Forward: Mastering the NGN and Strengthening Your Nursing Career
As the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) rolls out, nursing students and recent graduates find themselves at the intersection of an evolving healthcare landscape and an evolving exam structure. With its emphasis on critical thinking, clinical judgment, and real-world application of knowledge, the NGN will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nursing licensure. To excel in the NGN and make a lasting impact in the nursing profession, it’s essential to understand how to not only pass the exam but also how to leverage it as a foundation for a successful career. In this final part of our series, we’ll discuss strategies for mastering the NGN, as well as tips for turning licensure success into a thriving nursing career.
Developing Advanced Clinical Judgment Skills
At the core of the NGN lies clinical judgment—an evolving skill that nurses develop over years of practice. The NCLEX, once focused primarily on recalling facts, is now a more sophisticated measure of how well candidates can apply their knowledge in clinical settings. This marks a fundamental shift in how the profession views nursing competence. But how can students prepare themselves to develop and demonstrate advanced clinical judgment?
Engaging with Real-World Scenarios
The ability to think critically and make decisions in complex patient scenarios is essential for success on the NGN. To improve clinical judgment skills, students should engage with a variety of real-world clinical cases. Whether through clinical rotations, case studies, or simulation-based exercises, the more exposure students have to diverse patient scenarios, the better their decision-making skills will become. Here are some ways to further engage with clinical scenarios:
- Simulation Labs: Participating in clinical simulations offers an opportunity to practice decision-making in a controlled yet dynamic environment. Simulated patient scenarios often involve complications, requiring nurses to think quickly and act decisively.
- Peer Discussions: Discussing challenging cases with fellow students or mentors can provide fresh perspectives and stimulate critical thinking. This collaborative approach helps deepen understanding and fosters a sense of shared learning in nursing practice.
By continuing to refine clinical judgment in both theoretical and practical settings, aspiring nurses can cultivate a deeper, more nuanced approach to patient care that will serve them well in the NGN.
Enhancing the Role of Technology in NCLEX Preparation
As healthcare continues to evolve, so does the role of technology in nursing. The NGN exam itself is an example of how technology is reshaping the way nurses are assessed. From the introduction of new question types to the increased use of case studies and interactive assessments, the NGN reflects the digital transformation in healthcare. Therefore, integrating technology into study routines is key for students preparing for the exam.
Utilizing Online Platforms and Virtual Learning Tools
There are numerous online resources designed specifically to help students prepare for the NCLEX, including interactive question banks, virtual case study modules, and video lectures. These platforms offer valuable opportunities to practice answering NGN-style questions, allowing students to gain familiarity with the exam format and refine their test-taking strategies.
- Question Banks: Many NCLEX preparation tools offer question banks that feature NGN-style questions, allowing students to practice in a way that mirrors the actual exam. These platforms often provide detailed explanations for each answer, helping students understand their reasoning and develop their clinical judgment skills.
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Emerging technologies such as VR and AR are revolutionizing the way students learn and practice nursing. Some advanced simulation labs incorporate VR/AR to replicate high-fidelity clinical scenarios, enhancing the learning experience and improving decision-making skills.
By leveraging these technological tools, students can enhance their preparation for the NGN, gaining experience with the question types, formats, and clinical reasoning challenges they will face on exam day.
Building Confidence and Reducing Test Anxiety
The pressure of taking a high-stakes exam like the NGN can understandably cause anxiety for many students. However, building confidence and managing test anxiety are crucial elements of preparing for the NCLEX. Students need to find ways to remain calm, focused, and mentally prepared to face the exam.
Test-Taking Strategies to Foster Confidence
One of the most effective ways to build confidence is through simulation and repeated practice. As discussed in earlier parts of this series, practicing with full-length exams and timed test scenarios can help students develop the mental endurance needed for the NGN. In addition to practicing the technical aspects of the exam, there are several mental techniques students can use to manage anxiety and boost their confidence:
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, guided meditation, and mindfulness exercises can help students remain calm before and during the exam. Taking short breaks to reset mentally can also help reduce anxiety and improve focus.
- Positive Affirmations: Positive self-talk is a powerful tool in building self-confidence. Before the exam, students should focus on their strengths and remind themselves that they are well-prepared. Confidence can significantly impact performance, especially on a high-stakes exam like the NGN.
Turning Licensure Success into Career Success
While passing the NGN is a significant milestone, it’s only the beginning of a nurse’s professional journey. The real challenge lies in transitioning from a student to a fully-fledged healthcare provider, and the skills acquired during NGN preparation will lay the foundation for a successful career.
Lifelong Learning and Professional Development
Nursing is a profession that requires lifelong learning. The knowledge and skills needed to provide the best care for patients evolve constantly, and nurses must keep pace with these changes. Continuing education, advanced certifications, and specialty training will allow nurses to specialize in fields such as pediatrics, oncology, or gerontology, broadening career opportunities.
- Continuing Education: Many healthcare institutions offer continuing education programs that focus on emerging practices, new technologies, and updated clinical guidelines. Nurses should take advantage of these opportunities to stay at the forefront of their field.
- Specialization: Earning certifications in specialized areas of nursing practice can increase job prospects and earning potential. For example, becoming a certified critical care nurse (CCRN) or a nurse practitioner (NP) can lead to more advanced roles and responsibilities.
Mentorship and Networking
Networking is another crucial aspect of career advancement in nursing. Developing professional connections with experienced nurses, physicians, and healthcare leaders can open doors to new career opportunities. Mentorship, in particular, is invaluable, as seasoned nurses can offer insights into navigating complex patient care scenarios and provide guidance on career growth.
Conclusion
The Next Generation NCLEX represents a significant shift in how nurses are assessed and prepared for the challenges of the healthcare field. The increased focus on clinical judgment, critical thinking, and decision-making ensures that nursing graduates are well-equipped to meet the needs of modern patients. By embracing the changes brought on by the NGN and continuing to hone their clinical skills, nursing students can look forward to a rewarding and impactful career.
Success on the NGN isn’t just about passing an exam, it’s about proving to oneself that they have the knowledge, skills, and judgment to make a real difference in patient care. As the nursing profession continues to evolve, those who adapt, grow, and seek continuous improvement will be poised for success both in the NGN and in their nursing careers.
