RN-MSN – Chief Nursing Officer
High stress levels. Anxiety. Endless hours of studying. Physical and mental anguish. Nervousness. Dread. Intimidation. Fear. These are just a few of the thoughts, feelings, and ideas experienced by those in nursing school who are extremely proud of their accomplishment of completing nursing school but anticipate the one final test that stands between them and their first nursing job – the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination).
Typically, many nursing schools strive to prepare nursing students well by teaching the foundations and specialized knowledge needed to successfully take the test. But even those who are in the best nursing schools and have completed the program successfully still struggle with the feelings mentioned above when it involves sitting for the exam.
In considering the thoughts, feelings, and ideas that these individuals go through, it is imperative to have standard and strong study plans and test-taking strategies present in order to approach the exam with confidence. The following principles are essential when planning and preparing for the NCLEX and must be considered:
It is important for those preparing to take the NCLEX to understand the most effective ways to prepare so the future nurse can be fully prepared when he/she takes the examination.
The following are some ways to accurately and effectively prepare for the NCLEX:
The test is a computerized adaptive test which indicates that no two tests are identical, and it is adapted to the test taker based on their knowledge of the material. There is a minimum of 75 questions and a maximum of 265 questions.
One has six hours to complete the test and consists of pre-programmed breaks which means that the test taker will be notified when it is time to break. The test automatically stops when the test taker has either passed or failed the exam.
This is an organized way to prepare for the test and setting blocks of time to study on a calendar is a great way to achieve this plan. Be specific in one’s study plan focusing on certain concepts, weak areas, or clinical areas which will assist in keeping the plan of study organized.
Enlist support from fellow nursing graduates and share knowledge with each other as this is extremely helpful. Certain individuals have unique ways to remember important concepts that can help others as they prepare for the exam.
Utilize all forms of resources that may help – websites, books, in-person study groups, and blogs.
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the NCLEX is to answer practice questions. Comprehensive recall is not all that matters when taking the NCLEX. It is more about applying concepts to real-life scenarios and choosing the best answer.
Also, it is crucial to review the missed questions to determine why it was missed and to determine if there is a pattern in the questions that may have been missed relating to certain concepts.
Taking breaks is essential in order to keep the stress and anxiety levels from leading to the inability to accurately process knowledge. The breaks should be healthy and energizing to recharge the test taker and to reduce mental exhaustion.
Stick to one’s daily routine as much as possible such as exercising, spending time with family and friends, and going to the gym.
It is important to keep one’s routine to prevent a lack of control from being experienced, which can lead to decreased focus.
Taking care of oneself is crucial to success. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and yoga and/or meditation classes may all help with mental clarity and focus.
This is a very important test-taking tip and it is important for the test taker to breathe, focus, carefully read each question, and think about the question without overthinking.
There were many competencies required in nursing school and it is important to be confident and believe in oneself and to understand that success is within reach.
Each nurse will have his/her own success story when it comes to taking the NCLEX and it is important to realize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all method, but there are some study tips that are intended to help one study successfully in preparation for the NCLEX.
The following discusses seven study tips that are essential when studying for the NCLEX.
Rather than cramming all the studying into an impossible timeframe that is hard to reach, take care of one’s mind and body while preparing even if this indicates taking a few extra weeks or months to study and review. It is better to go slow and study at a steady pace rather than cramming and taking the exam when one may not be ready.
The exam contains percentage ranges for each category of testing and if one is familiar with this structure, he/she can focus on strong areas as well as the weak areas that may need extra focus.
Take practice tests, review study guides, and create a good study routine.
The prep course can be helpful for those who prefer a structured environment and for those who may not be able to take the test soon after nursing school.
Stay far away from test-related materials the day before the exam. A relaxing break is the most beneficial thing one can do the day before with plenty of rest and a healthy diet.
Wear comfortable clothing with layers in case the environment is cool or hot, avoid as many distractions as possible, arrive early with plenty of time to find the testing center, and arrive not too hungry but also not too full. Bring plenty of water to drink.
It may take roughly six weeks to receive results by mail, but with the improved services, typically one can know the results now within 48 hours. The NCLEX can be retaken within 45 days if the exam results are unsuccessful.
As with any licensure examination, stress and anxiety levels can be high but with the proper preparation and steps to prepare for the NCLEX, the thoughts, feelings, and ideas can be lessened to a level that is manageable. The preparation and steps involved can be intense but once the examination has been taken and successfully passed, the nurse can experience a huge sense of accomplishment.
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