The NCLEX and CMSRN exams are very different. When comparing the two types of test it’s important to understand the type of test you’re taking, from the questions, topics, experience, and eligibility before the test are all different.
#1 The Questions
The questions are straight forth, they are a question that is geared towards knowledge-based answers for the certification test. The questions have no tricks and the answer will either be right or wrong. The NCLEX on the other hand is testing for critical thinking as well as knowledge, and at times can come across as tricky. Different technics in the wording of the question will alter the answer or what the question is asking altogether.
#2 The topics
The NCLEX is everything nursing will show up on the exam. Everything from oncology, maternity, pharmacology, and surgical. The NCLEX test knowledge and critical thinking skills range from all over. CMSRN focuses on the knowledge area of Medical-Surgical patients, diagnosis, and pharmacology.
#3 Experience and Eligibility
Prior to the NCLEX, your experience is purely academic. To sit for the NCLEX you need to complete and graduate from a two or four-year credited nursing program. The program differentiates from clinical hours, a two-year program you actually get more clinical time and less theory, whereas the four-year degree is more theory and less clinical. Eventually, hospitals prefer most nurses to hold a BSN. The eligibility for certifications differs depending on the specialty, but for CMSRN, you need to hold a valid RN license, have practiced for at least two years in Med-Surg, and worked at least 2,000 hours within the past three years.
Is there any other difference you’ve been able to find?