Trend Item
An NGN item presenting data over time
Definition
A Trend Item is an NGN question format presenting a series of data points over time. Vital signs, lab trends, assessments. Requiring the nurse to recognize patterns of improvement, deterioration, or stability.
Example Data
BP trend over 6 hours, Hgb/Hct trend over 24 hours, pain scores every 2 hours. Student identifies clinical implications.
Strategy
- Compare values over time. Not just individual points
- Recognize deterioration early (often subtle)
- Apply knowledge of expected trends (recovery vs deterioration)
NCLEX Relevance
Tests ability to detect clinical deterioration, a key new-nurse skill.