[nursetims]

I'm not sure if this is the right forum to be postint this topic in, but I had a few questions about the Excelsior College CPNE. I am about to take nusing concepts 4 in a few weeks. I was looking on the EC website today and it said once I became elligable to take the CPNE I would have to wait 6-8 months for a test date. I'm assuming this is because of the large amount of students that need to test. I was wondering if anyone had any comments on this topic. When dou you become elligable, and how long did it take for you to get a test date after you had turned in you application? I'm ready to get this done! Any advice is greatly appreciated. Also, how can I start studying now for the CPNE? I've heard there is a majic grid.

[GoLytely]

It generally takes 4-6 months from the time you apply to the test time, which sucks because once you get on a roll you're ready to get done but you keep getting these hold ups. Even after I passed the CPNE (in January of 2006) I had to wait until March 17 when the next degree conferral was before they would send the ATT letter (authorization to test letter) for the NCLEX. I took the NCLEX and had my license by the middle of April.

Yes, there is a magic grid to follow. There is a lot of information you will need to learn and memorize, and if you are able I would strongly suggest a workshop like the one offered by Chancellor's. It is a week long conference and they do a very good job at helping you prepare and know what to expect at the test. BTW, I took my test in Amarillo and it was a great place to test.

[nursetims]

When do you become elligable for the cpne? after you take nc 7?

[medicin79]

You are eligible for the CPNE if you have; completed NC1 thru 7, and are within 9 units of completeing your general ed requirements. My wait time for a test date was exactly six months. If you have some flexiblity regarding short notice travel, you can also put yourself on a waiting list for openings due to student cancellations. Taking one of the available CPNE prep workshops (Excelsiors', Tina's or Lynne's) is an excellent investment. They go over the "magic grid", which is an organizational method, as well as care plans etc.

[EricEnfermero]

Moved to the Distance Learning/Independent Study Forum for more responses. Carry on...

[erinp88]

Can someone tell me if you're waiting 6 months for the test, are you required to pay the annual enrollment fee?

[Mudwoman]

The "Grid" is just a way to memorize and remember all the steps you must perform in the various areas of care. You are given blank paper in each of the assignment books so that you can write your "grid" down in order to remember what you need to do in order to pass. An example of a part of a grid would be something to remember the steps for abdominal assessment. PPP SODA POP.

P Provide privacy
P Ask patient if they need to go to the bathroom
P Position the patient correctly

S Turn off suction if they have an NG tube
O Observe for distention
D Don gloves
A Auscultate for bowel sounds in all four quadrants

P Palpate gently and note any rigidity/pain
O Turn on Suction when done
P Measure abdomen if assigned.

Since you will be assigned 5-7 areas of care, the "grid" is a fast way to make notes to follow.

I sent off my application in Aug 2006. I got everything turned back in Sept 22, 2006. I tested March 23-25. They updated my records April 29 and I was able to send off everything to my State BON on May 17. I got my temp license May 23.

They only have so many sites and so many CE's to do the test. They told me that they are working on getting additional hospitals for test sites, but I am not aware that they have managed to do that yet.

[Boston-RN]

Hey there,

Just to give an update on test dates. I turned in my app May 15th and asked for cancellation. I got called 2 weeks ago and I'm testing Aug 3-5 so yes if you ask for a cancellation you will more than likely get a chance to take it sooner than 6 months. But like others have said, there's a lot to memorize.

[DutchgirlRN]

Originally Posted by nursetims

I'm ready to get this done! Any advice is greatly appreciated. Also, how can I start studying now for the CPNE? I've heard there is a magic grid.

I found everything I needed here and you will too. Good Luck.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rnstudygroup/
I don't know if I could of done it without the help of this group. I finished in 1999.

[medicin79]

Yes, you will have to pay the annual fee; you must be an enrolled student in order to take the CPNE.