The NAPLEX Content Outline is used to develop the NAPLEX by identifying all content areas that will be addressed on the NAPLEX and the approximate number of questions on the NAPLEX that will be asked in each major content area (content domain). Stakeholders (eg, prospective examinees, schools of pharmacy, state boards of pharmacy, and the public) may use this outline to better understand how the NAPLEX is developed and the content areas that the NAPLEX assesses.
The draft of the NAPLEX Content Outline was developed by a diverse panel of practicing pharmacists who conducted a comprehensive analysis of entry-level pharmacy practice. The panel identified the tasks that are performed by an entry-level pharmacist and the corresponding knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required to safely and effectively perform those tasks.
The panel then organized the identified KSAs into content domains, subdomains, and in some instances, third-level sub-subdomains. Next, a random sample of practicing pharmacists were invited to complete an online survey designed to collect feedback on the content outline draft. A total of 1,999 pharmacists completed the survey by rating the relevance of each content area and providing openended feedback on each content domain (missing content areas and/or content areas that were listed but should be considered for removal).
The panel used the survey results to make final revisions to the content outline and to establish content domain weights (ie, the percentage of scored exam questions associated with each content domain). In establishing the content domain weights, the panel considered both the relevance ratings and survey responses for recommended weights.
The content areas on the NAPLEX Content Outline are organized into five major content domains. Within each major content domain are content subdomains and third-level sub-sub domains (where applicable).
- Foundational Knowledge for Pharmacy Practice
- Medication Use Process (Prescribing, Transcribing and Documenting, Dispensing, Administering, and Monitoring)
- Person-Centered Assessment and Treatment Planning
- Professional Practice
- Pharmacy Management and Leadership
Read also: Basic Knowledge for NAPLEX Preparation