What Is the NAPLEX®?

The NAPLEX® or North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination is a computer based test that measures an individual’s knowledge of best pharmacological practices. The test is administered under the oversight of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. It is just one part of a total licensing process for pharmacists in the U.S.

In order to prove a thorough knowledge of U.S. standards for pharmacists, the NAPLEX® includes questions targeted toward various evaluating goals. Part of success on the NAPLEX® is proving knowledge of procedural aspects of safe and effective practice. Another element is in proving the best safety practices and ways to effectively and accurately deliver medications to patients.

In aid of these various goals, the NABP has created several dozen items listed under “competency standards” that can help a student prepare to take the test. Some of these, that are listed under identifying safe and standard practices, include items on assessing patient information, as well as knowing signs and symptoms of illnesses and understanding aspects of continual treatment for a condition.

In the other core aspects of the test, items include determining and evaluating quantities of chemical elements in medications. For the third goal, there are items such as understanding how consumers get their health information, or looking at how patients choose medications. All of these relate back to specific parts of the NAPLEX®, and thorough study will bring a student closer to achieving desired outcomes for this key aspect of a professional pharmacological career.

It’s important to note that the NAPLEX® is not an elective test. In order to take the qualifying test for pharmacist licensure, the individual must have the backing of a regional pharmacy board. Applying for the test without this necessary authorization can result in forfeiture of substantial fees.

The NABP provide some guidelines for taking the NAPLEX®. One suggestion is to show up 30 minutes early in order to avoid being late for the test, or rushing in at the last minute. Another pointer is that the test centers may impose some restrictions on carrying test materials, personal possessions, or tobacco products inside of the center. Those taking the test are also advised to bring two forms of identification.

The NAPLEX® consists of 185 items. The computer based test is a linear test, which means that a test taker cannot change a response after indicating an initial response. This type of format encourages a standard presentation for the many people who take this exam each year for pharmacy professional licensure.