NCLEX-RN Question Type

Fill in the Blank (Calculations) Questions

Fill in the Blank (Calculations) questions on the NCLEX-RN exam require the test-taker to input a numerical answer to a calculation-based question. These questions assess the nursing candidate's ability to perform various mathematical calculations that are relevant to clinical practice, such as medication dosage, fluid intake and output, and body mass index. The blank to be filled in is typically a numerical value, rather than a word or phrase. These questions test the candidate's clinical reasoning skills, as well as their ability to apply mathematical concepts to nursing practice.

Practice Fill in the Blank (Calculations) Questions

How to Identify Fill in the Blank (Calculations) Questions

The question stem will present a clinical scenario that requires a numerical calculation to be performed.
There will be a blank space for the test-taker to input their numerical answer.
The question will not provide any multiple-choice options, unlike other NCLEX-RN question types.
The blank may be accompanied by a unit of measurement (e.g., mL, mg, kg) that the answer must be provided in.

Strategies for Fill in the Blank (Calculations) Questions

1Read the Question Stem Carefully

Thoroughly read the clinical scenario presented in the question stem to ensure you understand the context and what calculation is required. Pay close attention to any details or units of measurement provided.

2Set up the Calculation Correctly

Determine the appropriate mathematical operation(s) needed to solve the calculation, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. Ensure you set up the calculation correctly before inputting the final answer.

3Double-Check Your Work

After inputting your answer, review the calculation to ensure you have not made any mistakes. Cross-check your answer against any provided units of measurement to verify its accuracy.

4Utilize Dimensional Analysis

When faced with unit conversions or complex calculations, use the dimensional analysis method to set up and solve the problem step-by-step. This can help minimize errors and ensure the final answer is in the correct unit.

5Practice Regularly

Regularly practice calculation-based questions to build your confidence and improve your speed and accuracy. Exposure to a variety of clinical scenarios and calculation types will better prepare you for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Incorrectly setting up the calculation or using the wrong mathematical operation.
Forgetting to convert units of measurement to the required format before inputting the answer.
Rounding the final answer incorrectly or to the wrong number of decimal places.
Rushing through the calculation and making careless mistakes.

How to Practice

When practicing Fill in the Blank (Calculations) questions, it's important to approach them methodically and thoroughly. Start by carefully reading the question stem and identifying the key information provided, such as the clinical scenario and any units of measurement. Then, set up the calculation step-by-step, double-checking your work along the way. It can also be helpful to practice using the dimensional analysis method to ensure you're converting units correctly. Lastly, time yourself to build speed and confidence in inputting the final answer accurately. Regularly practicing this question type will help you develop the necessary skills to succeed on the NCLEX-RN exam.