NCSBN EXAMINATION PRACTICE TEST
2026 CORE NURSING COMPETENCIES
AND CLINICAL JUDGMENT REVIEW
◉ What is the maximum number of standalone items on the NCLEX-
PN exam?
Answer: The maximum is 117 standalone items.
◉ What is the significance of partial credit in the new scoring system
of the NCLEX-PN?
Answer: Candidates can receive credit for all correct responses
rather than just all or nothing.
◉ What is the recommended strategy for studying for the NCLEX-PN
exam?
Answer: Avoid cramming and study throughout the nursing program
for better retention.
◉ What is the role of the NCLEX-PN Item Development Panel?
Answer: It is composed of nurses who write test questions for the
exam.
, ◉ What is the purpose of the NCLEX-PN test plan?
Answer: It outlines the percentage of questions that will be asked for
each category of client need.
◉ What is the importance of the EHR in NCLEX-PN case studies?
Answer: It provides information that carries over to subsequent
items in the case study.
◉ What is a client in the context of NCLEX® terminology?
Answer: An individual, family, or group which includes significant
others and populations.
◉ Who is considered a primary health care provider?
Answer: A member of the healthcare team, usually a medical
physician or nurse practitioner, authorized to formulate
prescriptions.
◉ What does UAP stand for?
Answer: Unlicensed Assistive Personnel, trained to function in a
supportive role in nursing.
◉ How can a little anxiety affect performance?
Answer: A little anxiety can improve performance.
2026 CORE NURSING COMPETENCIES
AND CLINICAL JUDGMENT REVIEW
◉ What is the maximum number of standalone items on the NCLEX-
PN exam?
Answer: The maximum is 117 standalone items.
◉ What is the significance of partial credit in the new scoring system
of the NCLEX-PN?
Answer: Candidates can receive credit for all correct responses
rather than just all or nothing.
◉ What is the recommended strategy for studying for the NCLEX-PN
exam?
Answer: Avoid cramming and study throughout the nursing program
for better retention.
◉ What is the role of the NCLEX-PN Item Development Panel?
Answer: It is composed of nurses who write test questions for the
exam.
, ◉ What is the purpose of the NCLEX-PN test plan?
Answer: It outlines the percentage of questions that will be asked for
each category of client need.
◉ What is the importance of the EHR in NCLEX-PN case studies?
Answer: It provides information that carries over to subsequent
items in the case study.
◉ What is a client in the context of NCLEX® terminology?
Answer: An individual, family, or group which includes significant
others and populations.
◉ Who is considered a primary health care provider?
Answer: A member of the healthcare team, usually a medical
physician or nurse practitioner, authorized to formulate
prescriptions.
◉ What does UAP stand for?
Answer: Unlicensed Assistive Personnel, trained to function in a
supportive role in nursing.
◉ How can a little anxiety affect performance?
Answer: A little anxiety can improve performance.
