Embarking on the journey to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. The NCLEX-PN exam is the final hurdle to achieving your goal, and preparing for it can feel like a full-time job. But don’t worry—Ulosca.com is here to help you every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking for LPN exam review questions, need tips on how to pass the NCLEX-PN on the first try, or just want to know the best LPN study guides for 2025, Ulosca provides the exact resources you need. With practice questions and answers that mirror the real exam, Ulosca’s tailored study plans will help you feel confident and fully prepared to tackle the NCLEX-PN.
This LPN exam review guide breaks down everything you need for success, giving you the tools, strategies, and support to pass with flying colors. Let’s dive in and get you ready to crush the NCLEX-PN!
What Is the LPN Exam?
The LPN exam review begins with understanding what the exam is all about. The NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) is a computer-adaptive test that assesses your knowledge and ability to safely and effectively perform entry-level nursing tasks. It covers a wide range of topics, including patient care, health promotion, safety, and infection control. It’s designed to ensure that you have the skills needed to be a successful LPN.
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How the NCLEX-PN Works
The NCLEX-PN exam uses a Computer adaptive testing format (CAT). This means that the difficulty of questions will adjust based on your answers. Start by answering easy questions; as you get them right, the questions will become harder.
LPN exam review materials focus on preparing you for this dynamic environment, so it’s important to practice as much as possible. It’s a pass/fail exam with a variable number of questions, ranging from 75 to 145, according to the American Nurses Association.
What to Expect on the LPN Exam Test
You’ll be answering anywhere between 85 to 205 questions, with a time limit of 5 hours. LPN exam review questions are split into various categories like pharmacology, safety, infection control, and patient care. The exam uses a computerized algorithm to determine when you’ve demonstrated enough competency, and it can shut off as soon as it has enough data about your abilities.
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LPN Exam Content Breakdown
The NCLEX-PN exam is divided into several content areas, each targeting different aspects of nursing knowledge and skills. Here’s a breakdown of the content you’ll face on the exam, with a deeper dive into what each section covers:
Safe and Effective Care Environment (17-23%)
This section assesses your ability to provide safe care to patients by following appropriate protocols, managing care environments, and preventing harm. You’ll be asked about infection control, patient safety, and organizational skills.
- Infection Control: You’ll need to know how to prevent the spread of infections, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization techniques, and isolation precautions. A question might ask you to identify the right steps to prevent the transmission of pathogens in a hospital setting.
- Safety Protocols: This includes knowing how to handle emergencies, administer medications safely, and manage equipment in a clinical setting. You could be asked about medication errors, fall prevention, and managing hazardous situations like chemical spills or fires.
- Organizational Skills: As an LPN, you’ll be responsible for a variety of tasks. This portion assesses your ability to prioritize tasks, delegate appropriately, and manage time effectively, especially in fast-paced healthcare environments.
Health Promotion and Maintenance (6-12%)
This section focuses on the strategies and concepts related to the promotion of health and disease prevention.
- Growth and Development: Expect questions on different stages of human development—from infancy to old age. You’ll need to understand developmental milestones, key physical and emotional changes, and common health concerns for each age group. For example, you might be asked to identify a growth milestone for a 3-year-old or how to assess cognitive development in an elderly patient.
- Family Planning: Here, you’ll encounter questions on reproductive health, contraception methods, and prenatal care. You may be asked to provide counseling on birth control options or recognize signs of complications in pregnancy.
- Patient Education: This part evaluates your ability to educate patients about maintaining or improving their health. You’ll need to know how to explain treatment plans, medications, and healthy lifestyle choices. You might get questions asking how to explain dietary restrictions to a patient with diabetes or how to teach someone with asthma how to use their inhaler.
Psychosocial Integrity (6-12%)
In this section, you’ll demonstrate your understanding of mental health and emotional well-being, as well as your ability to provide support to patients facing psychological challenges.
- Coping Mechanisms: You’ll be tested on how to assess and assist patients who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or trauma. Questions may cover different therapeutic approaches for patients dealing with grief, mental health disorders, or major life transitions (such as a cancer diagnosis).
- Mental Health: This includes recognizing signs and symptoms of common mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. You might be asked about how to handle a patient who is exhibiting signs of severe depression or having a panic attack.
- Communication: Effective communication is key in nursing. Expect questions about therapeutic communication techniques—such as active listening, empathy, and non-verbal cues. You may also need to know how to support patients who are unable to communicate verbally due to illness or injury, such as those with dementia or brain injuries.
Physiological Integrity (40-67%)
This is the largest section of the exam, covering everything from basic care to the management of complex physiological needs. This area will be the focus of much of your LPN exam review, as it includes essential nursing skills and knowledge you’ll need on the job.
- Basic Care and Comfort: This includes questions on activities of daily living (ADLs), hygiene, and pain management. You may be asked to determine the appropriate interventions for a patient with limited mobility or how to help a patient with feeding or bathing.
- Health Assessments: You’ll need to be proficient in assessing vital signs, performing physical exams, and identifying signs of illness. For instance, questions may ask you to interpret abnormal lab results or identify signs of infection in a post-operative patient.
- Physiological Needs: This covers areas such as nutrition, elimination (bowel and urinary function), and fluid and electrolyte balance. You may need to recognize signs of dehydration, help patients manage urinary incontinence, or understand the nutritional needs of patients with chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease.
Complex Care Needs: This is where you’ll encounter scenarios requiring more advanced nursing knowledge, such as managing patients with chronic illnesses, administering medications, and caring for patients undergoing surgical procedures. You might be tested on how to administer medications, monitor the effectiveness of treatments, or respond to changes in a patient’s condition.
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LPN Entrance Exam Practice Test
When preparing for the LPN exam, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types of questions you’ll encounter. The NCLEX-PN exam uses several question formats to assess your knowledge and ability to think critically. Here are the types of questions you can expect:
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) – These questions will give you a list of possible answers, and you’ll need to select the best option. They typically test your knowledge of basic facts, procedures, and concepts.
Select All That Apply (SATA) – These questions ask you to choose all the answers that are correct. These can be tricky, so it’s important to carefully evaluate each option.
Ordered Response – These questions require you to arrange items or steps in the correct order, such as the correct sequence of actions for a procedure or the order in which certain nursing interventions should be implemented.
Fill-in-the-Blank – For these questions, you’ll need to type the correct answer into a blank space. These questions typically focus on your ability to recall specific terms, such as medical terminology or drug dosages.
Hotspot Questions – In this format, you’ll be asked to click on an area of a diagram or image, such as identifying the correct location of a pulse point or marking where a specific condition appears on the body.
Now, let’s dive into some free sample questions to help you prepare for the exam:
Example 1: Multiple-Choice Question
Question:
A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a patient who is allergic to penicillin. Which of the following should be the nurse’s first action?
A) Ask the patient to sign a consent form for the medication
B) Double-check the medication order with the healthcare provider
C) Verify the patient’s allergy by checking the medical record
D) Administer the medication as prescribed, ensuring the patient has been informed of the allergy
Correct Answer: C) Verify the patient’s allergy by checking the medical record
Explanation:
The nurse must first verify the patient’s allergy by checking the medical record to ensure the medication is safe for them to receive. This action minimizes the risk of administering a drug the patient may be allergic to. The other options may be important steps, but verifying the allergy is the first priority.
Example 2: Select All That Apply (SATA) Question
Question:
Which of the following actions should a nurse take when caring for a patient with a catheter? Select all that apply.
A) Maintain a sterile technique during catheter insertion
B) Encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids
C) Change the catheter every 24 hours
D) Secure the catheter properly to prevent kinking
Correct Answers: A, B, and D
Explanation:
A) Maintain a sterile technique during catheter insertion: This is essential to prevent infection.
B) Encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids: This helps keep the urine flowing and reduces the risk of infection or blockage.
D) Secure the catheter properly to prevent kinking: Securing the catheter reduces discomfort and prevents urinary retention or leakage.
Option C is incorrect because catheters are typically not changed every 24 hours unless medically indicated; they are usually changed according to the care plan or guidelines.
These examples demonstrate the different formats you’ll encounter on the LPN exam review and how you should approach answering each type of question. To practice further, download a free LPN practice test with answers PDF from ulosca.com or use Ulosca’s question bank for more sample questions.
How to Pass the LPN Exam on Your First Try
Everyone wants to pass the NCLEX-PN on the first try. Here are a few tips to make that happen:
5 LPN Test Prep Strategies That Work
Practice Like It’s the Real Test – Use Ulosca’s practice tests under timed conditions. The more practice you get, the more confident you’ll feel on test day.
Master “Select All That Apply” (SATA) – Many students struggle with SATA questions. The key is reading each option carefully and eliminating obviously wrong answers.
Focus on Weak Spots – Are you struggling with drug calculations or infection control? These topics show up a lot, so make them a priority.
Learn the “Why” Behind Answers – Don’t just memorize facts. Understand why the correct answer is correct, and why the others are not. This will improve your critical thinking and test performance.
Simulate Test Day – A week before your exam, simulate the test environment. No notes, no distractions—just you and the clock.
Common LPN Exam Mistakes to Avoid
Panicking on Hard Questions – It’s natural to feel stressed, but don’t get stuck on one question. Skip it and come back later.
Overthinking Simple Questions – If you think you know the answer, go with your first instinct. Overthinking often leads to mistakes.
Ignoring Infection Control – Infection control is a major part of the exam. Don’t underestimate it!
>>>Check out NUR 130 Practice Exam<<<
Can you retake the LPN exam if you fail?
Yes, you can retake the NCLEX-PN (the Licensed Practical Nurse exam) if you fail your first attempt. You must wait a minimum of 45 days before retaking the exam. You’ll need to re register with Pearson VUE and pay the associated fee. Most states allow up to eight attempts within a year.
Retaking the NCLEX-PN: A Step-by-Step Guide
Contact Your State Board of Nursing: Notify them that you plan to retake the exam and inquire about any specific requirements or fees for retakes in your state.
Reregister with Pearson VUE: This is the company that administers the NCLEX exam.
Pay the Registration Fee: The fee for the NCLEX-PN is typically around $200.
Receive Your Authorization to Test (ATT): Once you’ve completed the registration process, you’ll receive your ATT, which allows you to schedule your test.
Schedule Your Test: You can then book your test appointment at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Study and Prepare: Use the 45-day wait period to study and review material, focusing on areas where you struggled on the first attempt.
Important Considerations:
State Regulations: While the NCSBN allows for retakes, individual state boards may have their own specific rules and limitations on the number of attempts within a given timeframe.
Wait Period: Remember to wait a minimum of 45 days before retaking the exam.
Fees: Be aware of all associated fees, including the Pearson VUE registration fee and any state-specific licensure fees.
Best LPN Study Guides for 2025
Preparing for the LPN exam requires selecting the right study materials that align with your learning style and provide comprehensive coverage of the exam content. Here are some top-rated study guides for 2025:
Ulosca’s LPN Question Bank
Ulosca offers an extensive LPN exam review question bank designed to mirror the real NCLEX-PN format. This resource is ideal for practicing a wide range of questions with detailed explanations, helping you understand the reasoning behind each answer.
Ulosca’s platform allows you to track your progress and focus on areas that need improvement. Access to the question bank is available through a subscription model, providing flexibility and affordability. ulosca.com
NCLEX PN Review Book
This comprehensive guide includes four full-length practice tests, detailed answer explanations, and test-taking strategies tailored for the NCLEX-PN exam. It’s designed to help you build confidence and improve your test-taking skills. The book covers all major content areas and is updated to reflect the latest exam trends.
What Makes Ulosca the Right Choice?
When it comes to LPN exam review, Ulosca is one of the top recommendations. Ulosca offers a full suite of LPN test prep strategies that work, including a question bank that mirrors the real NCLEX-PN format. Here’s why it stands out:
Comprehensive Study Tools
Whether you prefer visual aids, interactive tests, or thorough explanations, Ulosca has you covered. The platform includes:
- Flashcards: Quick and effective for memorizing key concepts, drug names, nursing procedures, and medical terminology.
- Practice Exams: Ulosca offers practice exams that simulate the actual NCLEX-PN format, so you get a feel for the real test experience. These exams are broken down by topic, helping you focus on areas that need the most attention.
- Detailed Explanations: After completing practice tests, Ulosca provides detailed explanations for each question, helping you understand not just the correct answer, but also why other options were incorrect. This encourages active learning and helps you build a deeper understanding of nursing concepts.
Affordable
Ulosca offers unlimited access to practice questions for a low monthly fee, making it an affordable option for students who need extensive practice without breaking the bank.
Realistic
The practice exams closely mirror the real NCLEX-PN exam, with questions designed in the same computer-adaptive format. This allows you to get familiar with the test’s difficulty level and pacing, ensuring you’re fully prepared for test day.
Free vs. Paid LPN Exam Resources
When preparing for the LPN exam, it’s important to weigh your options between free and paid resources. Both have their pros and cons, and combining them can provide a well-rounded approach to your study plan.
Where to Find Reliable Free Materials
If you’re looking to get started without committing to paid resources, there are plenty of free LPN exam review materials available. Here’s where to find some of the best free options:
Ulosca.com
Ulosca offers a variety of free resources to help you get started with your LPN exam prep. While their full question bank and practice exams require a subscription, Ulosca provides a few sample questions and study tips at no cost. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with their platform and decide if it’s right for you. You can access these free materials through their website, which offers a sneak peek into their full, affordable subscription-based content.
NCSBN’s Free NCLEX-PN Sample Questions
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) provides free NCLEX-PN sample questions, which are considered some of the most accurate representations of the actual exam. These questions are essential for familiarizing yourself with the exam format and the type of questions you’ll face.
Since the NCSBN is the organization that creates the NCLEX-PN exam, their sample questions are as close to the real thing as you can get. You can access them on the NCSBN website, offering an excellent starting point for your review.
Is Paid LPN Prep Worth It?
Paid prep courses often have more robust, structured study plans that can save you time and stress. For example, Ulosca’s question bank helps you get an in-depth look at the exam format and builds your speed and accuracy. Some platforms also offer money-back guarantees if you don’t pass, but be sure to read the fine print.
LPN Exam FAQs
How Hard is it to Pass the LPN exam?
The NCLEX-PN is challenging but very passable—about 85% of first-timers succeed. The key is consistent practice with realistic LPN exam review questions and understanding why answers are right or wrong. If you study strategically, you’ll likely join the passing stats!
How Many Questions are on the LPN exam?
The NCLEX-PN (LPN exam) contains a variable number of questions, ranging from a minimum of 85 to a maximum of 205. The exam uses a computerized adaptive test (CAT) format, meaning the number of questions and their difficulty are adjusted based on the test-taker’s performance. The exam ends when the system is 95% confident in the candidate’s ability, or if the maximum number of questions is reached or the time limit is exceeded.
Is the LPN NCLEX Harder than the RN Exam?
The NCLEX-PN (LPN exam) is generally considered to be easier than the NCLEX-RN (RN exam). While both exams assess nursing knowledge and skills, the RN exam delves deeper into critical thinking, assessment, and prioritization, particularly in the context of delegation and patient care.
How to Study for the LPN NCLEX Exam?
Start with your weakest subjects (like pharmacology or infection control) and use active learning—practice tests, flashcards, and teaching concepts aloud. Tools like Ulosca’s question bank mimic the real exam format, so you’ll build speed and confidence.
What’s the Hardest Part of the LPN test?
The hardest part of the LPN (NCLEX-PN) test is often the application of knowledge to real-world scenarios, rather than rote memorization. This means you’ll encounter complex patient cases and need to critically analyze information to identify the best course of action. Additionally, the adaptive testing format can be challenging, as the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your answers.
Final Tips for LPN Exam Success
Start your preparations early. Practice often, review your mistakes, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. A week before the exam, take a full-length timed practice test to gauge your readiness. Remember, thousands pass the exam every year—you can too! Ready to dive in? Ulosca’s LPN question bank is a great place to start practicing today!