8 answers
hargun
Student
Miami, Florida
11
Questions
Updated
4366 views
Tips for passing the NCLEX
I am a nursing student who will graduate in May 2022 and I am scared about my ability to be able to pass and clear the NCLEX exam so I appreciate any tips that you have #nurse #college-advice #college #healthcare #nursing
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8 answers
Raquel Davis
Registered Nurse, premed student
148
Answers
Providence, Rhode Island
Updated
Raquel’s Answer
The NCLEX is certainly a difficult and intimidating exam, but remember, its set up for your success! The grading algorithm for the exam is to provide you with the best opportunity of success. To break it down, the exam can range from 75-265 questions and anywhere in between. In order to pass you have to answer a certain amount of high level questions correctly. Having more than 75 questions or even getting all 265 questions doesn't mean you aren't smart or aren't going to pass, you just need one correct question to push you over the threshold of passing.
That being said, everyone has their own ways of studying. I personally found that watching nursing review videos and taking notes on them was vey helpful for me. I personally love the registerednursern YouTube channel, she does a great job of putting together important information in a quick manner that makes sense. I also heavily used the ATI textbooks I got at the start of my program. Though not every program uses ATI, most do. ATI is a program that is made to mirror the NCLEX. I went through the review books and answered the practice questions in those books. I found that the ATI questions are the most similar to the actual questions on the NCLEX, more than Kaplan or Hearst.
The thing to remember with the NCLEX is its testing your ability to safely practice as a nurse. There are a lot of questions on what you should do/assess first. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is huge with this. Every time each answer provided will be something you want to do, but you need to figure out the priority, and that always comes down to Maslows and the ABC's. If you keep those things in mind and find a good review/study system for you you'll do fine!
I also want to say, there's stuff all over the Internet about how to pass the NCLEX in 75 questions, don't focus on that. While those people may have useful tips, how many questions you pass in doesn't matter. A nurse who passes in 75 questions is the exact same as a nurse who passes in 150 or 265. All that matters is you pass and then how you are as an actual nurse! And remember, even if you don't pass the first time you can always take it again. It's just a test, it doesn't define you or how good of a nurse you will be.
Best of luck!
That being said, everyone has their own ways of studying. I personally found that watching nursing review videos and taking notes on them was vey helpful for me. I personally love the registerednursern YouTube channel, she does a great job of putting together important information in a quick manner that makes sense. I also heavily used the ATI textbooks I got at the start of my program. Though not every program uses ATI, most do. ATI is a program that is made to mirror the NCLEX. I went through the review books and answered the practice questions in those books. I found that the ATI questions are the most similar to the actual questions on the NCLEX, more than Kaplan or Hearst.
The thing to remember with the NCLEX is its testing your ability to safely practice as a nurse. There are a lot of questions on what you should do/assess first. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is huge with this. Every time each answer provided will be something you want to do, but you need to figure out the priority, and that always comes down to Maslows and the ABC's. If you keep those things in mind and find a good review/study system for you you'll do fine!
I also want to say, there's stuff all over the Internet about how to pass the NCLEX in 75 questions, don't focus on that. While those people may have useful tips, how many questions you pass in doesn't matter. A nurse who passes in 75 questions is the exact same as a nurse who passes in 150 or 265. All that matters is you pass and then how you are as an actual nurse! And remember, even if you don't pass the first time you can always take it again. It's just a test, it doesn't define you or how good of a nurse you will be.
Best of luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
hargun
Maria Thulin RN BS IBCLC
5
Answers
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Get test question books or online and answer as many as you can. You already learned everything now you just need to get better at answering test questions. The questions are worded so that more than one answer can be correct, so you want to be prepared. I seriously remember answering 2,000 questions to prepare. You got this!
Ashley Anders
Labor and Delivery/Postpartum/Stable Newborn/Gynecology Registered Nurse
15
Answers
Wytheville, Virginia
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hey Hargun!! Wishing you luck on your upcoming test!! Or maybe by now you may have already passed!! If so, CONGRATTTTTSSS!!
For those that will look at this forum to also gain advice I will go ahead and answer your question. The biggest thing about NCLEX is knowing how to dissect what the question is truly asking. Learn how to break down the questions using resources from Youtube, Pinterest, etc. Take advantage of any free NCLEX test banks. Download NCLEX question apps on your phone and every time you would normally be caught scrolling on your phone make yourself answer 5 NCLEX questions first before scrolling through Facebook. Use Kaplan test prep if your school offers it but the best test prep I paid for was hands down UWorld. Make yourself take 20 question quizzes at a time. Much more can become overwhelming and make your dread them. The more questions you do in prep the better off you are. Don't stress!! You got this!
For those that will look at this forum to also gain advice I will go ahead and answer your question. The biggest thing about NCLEX is knowing how to dissect what the question is truly asking. Learn how to break down the questions using resources from Youtube, Pinterest, etc. Take advantage of any free NCLEX test banks. Download NCLEX question apps on your phone and every time you would normally be caught scrolling on your phone make yourself answer 5 NCLEX questions first before scrolling through Facebook. Use Kaplan test prep if your school offers it but the best test prep I paid for was hands down UWorld. Make yourself take 20 question quizzes at a time. Much more can become overwhelming and make your dread them. The more questions you do in prep the better off you are. Don't stress!! You got this!
Gina Cabrera, MPS
EC
132
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Gina’s Answer
Preparing for the NCLEX can be challenging, but with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you pass the NCLEX:
1. Start Early: Begin your NCLEX preparation well in advance of the exam date. This will give you ample time to review and reinforce your knowledge.
2. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NCLEX. Understand the types of questions you will encounter, such as multiple-choice, select-all-that-apply, and prioritization questions.
3. Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that outlines the topics you need to cover and the amount of time you will dedicate to each. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks to avoid overwhelm.
4. Use Reliable Study Resources: Utilize reputable study materials, such as NCLEX review books, online question banks, and practice exams. Look for resources that align with the latest NCLEX test plan.
5. Practice with NCLEX-Style Questions: Regularly practice answering NCLEX-style questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your critical thinking skills. Focus on understanding the rationales behind both correct and incorrect answers.
6. Review Content Areas: Identify your weak areas and allocate more time to review those topics. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than memorizing facts.
7. Join Study Groups or Find a Study Buddy: Collaborating with peers can provide additional support and help you reinforce your understanding of key concepts. Discussing and explaining concepts to others can enhance your own understanding.
8. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care during your NCLEX preparation. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and take breaks to avoid burnout. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help you stay focused and perform at your best.
9. Simulate Exam Conditions: Practice taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience. This will help you build stamina and manage your time effectively.
10. Stay Positive and Confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation and on the day of the exam. Confidence can help you perform better and manage test anxiety.
Remember, passing the NCLEX requires a combination of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and test-taking strategies. Stay committed, stay focused, and trust in your preparation. Good luck!
1. Start Early: Begin your NCLEX preparation well in advance of the exam date. This will give you ample time to review and reinforce your knowledge.
2. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NCLEX. Understand the types of questions you will encounter, such as multiple-choice, select-all-that-apply, and prioritization questions.
3. Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that outlines the topics you need to cover and the amount of time you will dedicate to each. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks to avoid overwhelm.
4. Use Reliable Study Resources: Utilize reputable study materials, such as NCLEX review books, online question banks, and practice exams. Look for resources that align with the latest NCLEX test plan.
5. Practice with NCLEX-Style Questions: Regularly practice answering NCLEX-style questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your critical thinking skills. Focus on understanding the rationales behind both correct and incorrect answers.
6. Review Content Areas: Identify your weak areas and allocate more time to review those topics. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than memorizing facts.
7. Join Study Groups or Find a Study Buddy: Collaborating with peers can provide additional support and help you reinforce your understanding of key concepts. Discussing and explaining concepts to others can enhance your own understanding.
8. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care during your NCLEX preparation. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and take breaks to avoid burnout. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help you stay focused and perform at your best.
9. Simulate Exam Conditions: Practice taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience. This will help you build stamina and manage your time effectively.
10. Stay Positive and Confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation and on the day of the exam. Confidence can help you perform better and manage test anxiety.
Remember, passing the NCLEX requires a combination of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and test-taking strategies. Stay committed, stay focused, and trust in your preparation. Good luck!
Ashley Anders
Labor and Delivery/Postpartum/Stable Newborn/Gynecology Registered Nurse
15
Answers
Wytheville, Virginia
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hey! Practice makes perfect! I loved UWorld for test prep but also did Kaplan test review as well. My favorite way to study was downloading test prep apps on my phone and anytime I had a free minute doing a 5 question test.
Adeodu Adeoye Lato Daniel
1
Answer
Updated
Adeodu’s Answer
Banish fears and get down to work time is not your friend extra four hours per day after using SWOT approach to remove your limitation and looking for a group which has the same objectives as your's -(collaboration can be the tonic required) shall made to fly over the hurdles.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7216
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Hargun,
Passing the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a crucial step for nursing students to obtain their nursing license and begin their professional career. While it is natural to feel anxious about this exam, proper preparation and a strategic approach can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and pass the NCLEX:
1. Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance of the exam date. The NCLEX covers a wide range of nursing topics, so it is important to give yourself enough time to review and understand the material thoroughly. Starting early allows you to create a study schedule that suits your learning style and helps you avoid last-minute cramming.
2. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NCLEX. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, as well as alternate format questions such as select-all-that-apply, fill-in-the-blank, and ordered response questions. Understanding how these questions are presented will help you approach them effectively during the exam.
3. Utilize Reliable Study Resources: Choose high-quality study resources that align with the content areas covered in the NCLEX. There are numerous review books, online courses, practice question banks, and mobile apps available specifically designed for NCLEX preparation. Some popular resources include Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination, Kaplan's NCLEX-RN Prep Plus, and UWorld's NCLEX-RN Qbank. These resources provide comprehensive content review, practice questions, and detailed rationales to help you understand the reasoning behind correct answers.
4. Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all content areas tested on the NCLEX. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on specific topics each day. Allocate more time to areas where you feel less confident while also reviewing previously covered material regularly to reinforce your understanding.
5. Practice with NCLEX-Style Questions: Answering practice questions is an essential part of NCLEX preparation. It helps you become familiar with the exam format, improves your critical thinking skills, and identifies areas where you need further review. Aim to answer a variety of practice questions from different sources, including those with alternate format questions. Analyze both correct and incorrect answers to understand the underlying concepts and rationales.
6. Simulate Exam Conditions: As your exam date approaches, simulate the actual testing conditions to build familiarity and reduce test anxiety. Take timed practice exams in a quiet environment, without distractions, to replicate the real testing experience. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
7. Review Content Areas: Focus on understanding key nursing concepts and principles across various content areas such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, maternity nursing, pharmacology, and more. Reviewing core content areas will help you answer questions confidently and accurately.
8. Develop Critical Thinking Skills: The NCLEX assesses not only your knowledge but also your ability to apply critical thinking skills in clinical scenarios. Practice analyzing patient scenarios, prioritizing care, and making sound clinical judgments. Developing strong critical thinking skills will enable you to approach complex questions with confidence.
9. Join Study Groups or Seek Peer Support: Collaborating with fellow nursing students can be beneficial for studying and sharing resources. Joining study groups or online forums allows you to discuss challenging topics, clarify doubts, and gain different perspectives on nursing concepts.
10. Take Care of Yourself: Lastly, prioritize self-care during your NCLEX preparation period. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and take breaks when needed. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will enhance your focus and concentration during study sessions.
Remember that passing the NCLEX requires a combination of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and effective test-taking strategies. By following these tips and dedicating sufficient time and effort to your preparation, you can increase your chances of success on the exam.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - The official website of NCSBN provides information about the NCLEX exam, including content outlines, test plans, and resources for candidates.
2. Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination - A widely recognized and trusted review book authored by Linda Anne Silvestri, which offers comprehensive content review and practice questions for the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. UWorld's NCLEX-RN Qbank - UWorld is a reputable online platform that offers a comprehensive question bank with detailed rationales to help nursing students prepare for the NCLEX exam.
God Bless Your Efforts,
James.
Passing the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a crucial step for nursing students to obtain their nursing license and begin their professional career. While it is natural to feel anxious about this exam, proper preparation and a strategic approach can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and pass the NCLEX:
1. Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance of the exam date. The NCLEX covers a wide range of nursing topics, so it is important to give yourself enough time to review and understand the material thoroughly. Starting early allows you to create a study schedule that suits your learning style and helps you avoid last-minute cramming.
2. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the NCLEX. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, as well as alternate format questions such as select-all-that-apply, fill-in-the-blank, and ordered response questions. Understanding how these questions are presented will help you approach them effectively during the exam.
3. Utilize Reliable Study Resources: Choose high-quality study resources that align with the content areas covered in the NCLEX. There are numerous review books, online courses, practice question banks, and mobile apps available specifically designed for NCLEX preparation. Some popular resources include Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination, Kaplan's NCLEX-RN Prep Plus, and UWorld's NCLEX-RN Qbank. These resources provide comprehensive content review, practice questions, and detailed rationales to help you understand the reasoning behind correct answers.
4. Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all content areas tested on the NCLEX. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on specific topics each day. Allocate more time to areas where you feel less confident while also reviewing previously covered material regularly to reinforce your understanding.
5. Practice with NCLEX-Style Questions: Answering practice questions is an essential part of NCLEX preparation. It helps you become familiar with the exam format, improves your critical thinking skills, and identifies areas where you need further review. Aim to answer a variety of practice questions from different sources, including those with alternate format questions. Analyze both correct and incorrect answers to understand the underlying concepts and rationales.
6. Simulate Exam Conditions: As your exam date approaches, simulate the actual testing conditions to build familiarity and reduce test anxiety. Take timed practice exams in a quiet environment, without distractions, to replicate the real testing experience. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
7. Review Content Areas: Focus on understanding key nursing concepts and principles across various content areas such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, maternity nursing, pharmacology, and more. Reviewing core content areas will help you answer questions confidently and accurately.
8. Develop Critical Thinking Skills: The NCLEX assesses not only your knowledge but also your ability to apply critical thinking skills in clinical scenarios. Practice analyzing patient scenarios, prioritizing care, and making sound clinical judgments. Developing strong critical thinking skills will enable you to approach complex questions with confidence.
9. Join Study Groups or Seek Peer Support: Collaborating with fellow nursing students can be beneficial for studying and sharing resources. Joining study groups or online forums allows you to discuss challenging topics, clarify doubts, and gain different perspectives on nursing concepts.
10. Take Care of Yourself: Lastly, prioritize self-care during your NCLEX preparation period. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and take breaks when needed. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will enhance your focus and concentration during study sessions.
Remember that passing the NCLEX requires a combination of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and effective test-taking strategies. By following these tips and dedicating sufficient time and effort to your preparation, you can increase your chances of success on the exam.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - The official website of NCSBN provides information about the NCLEX exam, including content outlines, test plans, and resources for candidates.
2. Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination - A widely recognized and trusted review book authored by Linda Anne Silvestri, which offers comprehensive content review and practice questions for the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. UWorld's NCLEX-RN Qbank - UWorld is a reputable online platform that offers a comprehensive question bank with detailed rationales to help nursing students prepare for the NCLEX exam.
God Bless Your Efforts,
James.
Sandra Hurst
nurse
32
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Sandra’s Answer
Hello Hargun,
There are so many useful tools out there to successfully pass the HESI and NCLEX; your school should have supplied a HESI practice test book; some schools, however, also supply NCLEX practice questions as my nursing school did. It also depends upon how well your school prepared you to take the HESI and NCLEX; my school had a course called PrepU, which was a course that had 10,000 practice questions that required you to complete at least 750 of them by end of each of the 4 semesters; you can also use videos such as this one to review questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2LLhPi3hHo ; in addition, from what I understand, is that more case-study questions are included in the newer NCLEX; good luck your test
There are so many useful tools out there to successfully pass the HESI and NCLEX; your school should have supplied a HESI practice test book; some schools, however, also supply NCLEX practice questions as my nursing school did. It also depends upon how well your school prepared you to take the HESI and NCLEX; my school had a course called PrepU, which was a course that had 10,000 practice questions that required you to complete at least 750 of them by end of each of the 4 semesters; you can also use videos such as this one to review questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2LLhPi3hHo ; in addition, from what I understand, is that more case-study questions are included in the newer NCLEX; good luck your test