Which cognitive skills are emphasized in the NGN exam?

The NGN exam emphasizes cognitive skills that are essential for critical thinking and clinical reasoning in nursing practice. Knowledge, application, analysis, and evaluation are foundational skills that allow nurses to integrate theoretical knowledge into practical scenarios effectively.

Knowledge involves understanding concepts and information relevant to nursing care, which is crucial for making informed decisions. Application goes a step further by requiring nurses to use that knowledge in real-world situations, demonstrating the ability to implement care strategies appropriately.

Analysis is vital for breaking down complex patient information, assessing data, and identifying patterns, which are integral to establishing accurate nursing diagnoses and planning care. Evaluation encompasses the ability to critically assess outcomes, ensuring that interventions are effective and adjusting care plans when necessary.

Emphasizing these cognitive skills prepares nursing candidates not only to recall information but also to apply it in nuanced ways that reflect the realities of clinical practice, where quick thinking and sound judgment are essential. This approach supports the transition from knowing to doing, which is central to successful nursing.