What is the primary purpose of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?

The primary purpose of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) is to assess the competency and readiness of nursing candidates to practice safely and effectively. This emphasis on competency ensures that candidates not only possess nursing knowledge but also can apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios, demonstrating critical thinking, sound clinical judgment, and decision-making skills essential for patient safety. By focusing on these areas, the NGN aims to produce graduates who are fully prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare environment and provide high-quality care to patients.

In contrast to this core purpose, the other options do not align with the NGN’s objectives. Evaluating nursing knowledge alone would neglect the essential skills required in clinical situations, which are critical for safe nursing practice. Lowering passing standards would compromise the integrity and effectiveness of nursing education, potentially leading to a workforce that is unprepared for the complexities of patient care. Similarly, while streamlining the education process may be beneficial in a different context, it does not capture the NGN's focus on ensuring that candidates are truly ready to face the challenges of nursing practice. Therefore, the assessment of competency and readiness is central to the goals of the NGN.