Voices Raised: The NCLEX-RN Experience in Canada.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Professional Licensure
• Health Policy

Background:

• The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) implementation in Canada in 2015 has generated ongoing debate.
• Two unsolicited manuscripts highlighted the NCLEX-RN as a persistent and controversial topic within the nursing profession.
• The Canadian Journal of Nursing Leadership (CJNL) has a history of publishing special issues to consolidate knowledge on specific subjects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the ongoing controversy surrounding the NCLEX-RN.
• To create a comprehensive repository of knowledge and information on the NCLEX.
• To explore the NCLEX from diverse stakeholder perspectives and advocate for solutions.

Main Methods:

• This special issue compiles 10 papers on the NCLEX.
• The papers present viewpoints from researchers, policymakers, educators, and students.
• A coalition of nurses advocating for remedies is also featured.

Main Results:

• The NCLEX-RN remains a significant and unresolved issue for the nursing profession.
• The examination has a disproportionately adverse impact on students, particularly francophone writers.
• There is a need for remedies to address these impacts.

Conclusions:

• This special issue serves as a focused exploration and historical reference for the NCLEX.
• The collected papers highlight the need for continued discussion and action regarding the NCLEX's impact.
• Addressing the adverse effects of the NCLEX, especially on specific student groups, is crucial for the profession.