The Canadian registered nurse (RN) regulators* and National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN®) are pleased to announce their partnership to develop and deliver NCSBN’s computerized adaptive test (CAT), the NCLEX-RN® Examination, in Canada beginning in 2015.
With the goal of providing a modern, state-of-the-art entry-to-practice examination for RNs that would meet regulatory needs today and in the future, Canadian RN regulators identified the need for an examination that employs the latest advances in testing technology to enhance test security, increase accessibility to the exam by offering year-round testing, provide timely results and allow for precise assessment of an individual candidate’s performance. The NCLEX-RN® already employs these exam delivery features. The exam will fulfill regulatory requirements for a legally defensible, high-stakes exam that will assess a candidate’s ability to meet the entry-to-practice competencies for nursing in Canada.
NCSBN became the first organization to implement CAT for U.S. licensure examinations in 1994. Widely regarded as one of the preeminent licensure examinations in the world, the NCLEX examinations are constantly and rigorously evaluated to keep pace with the rapidly evolving health care environment.
In the coming months, the transition to the exam and communication with key stakeholders will take place. The Canadian RN regulators look forward to having members and stakeholders continue to support regulatory excellence by participating in activities related to the development of the RN exam.
*Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
Association of Registered Nurses of Prince Edward Island
College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta
College of Nurses of Ontario
College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia
College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba
College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia
Nurses Association of New Brunswick
Registered Nurses Association of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut
Saskatchewan Registered Nurses Association