Case Study

A multi-part NGN question format following a client's clinical journey

Definition

A Case Study is a signature Next-Generation NCLEX (NGN) format consisting of a realistic, evolving clinical scenario with six linked questions. Each question tests one of the six CJMM steps: recognize cues, analyze cues, prioritize hypotheses, generate solutions, take action, and evaluate outcomes.

Structure

Patient presentation with medical record components (history, vitals, labs)
Information updates as the scenario evolves
Variety of item types within one case. Drop-down, highlight, matrix, SATA
Partial credit scoring on most items

Strategy

Read the entire scenario first. Re-read for each new question, as information updates may change the correct answer. Apply the CJMM systematically. Do not skip to 'take action' before analyzing cues.

NCLEX Relevance

Every 2026 NCLEX-RN candidate will see a minimum of three scored case studies plus one unscored (pretest) case study. Success with cases is highly predictive of overall exam performance.