What is the professional title given to a nurse authorized to practice after passing the NCLEX exam?

The title given to a nurse who has successfully passed the NCLEX exam is Registered Nurse (RN). This designation signifies that the individual has met the required education and competency standards necessary for entry into the profession. RNs have the ability to provide patient care, administer medications, and coordinate care for patients across a variety of healthcare settings.

In contrast, the other titles listed refer to different levels of nursing practice or specialized roles. A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) typically has completed a shorter program and is not required to pass the NCLEX-RN but rather a different examination specific to practical nursing. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who have completed additional education, generally at the master's level, and are often involved in diagnosing and treating patients independently. Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are also advanced practice registered nurses, focusing on a specific area of practice and providing expert advice related to that specialty. Thus, the designation of Registered Nurse distinctly applies to those who have completed their initial licensure process after passing the NCLEX.