[elizzy]

I'm having some real anxiety over this exam...I've worked in ICU level 1 trauma center for 10 years, I have the Laura Gasparis DVD's and question review book, also the CCRN review book, and I feel like I'm not making any headway.
My test is on monday\Feb 28 and is what I'm feeling anxiety?
I can't concentrate or remember anything, I've been studying for a solid month at least 5-6 hours a day, sometimes more.
I've been reviewing and taking the practice tests and bombing!
I'm a pretty bright girl, I can usually retain just about anything I'm reading and for some reason this is just not sinking in.
I've been putting this test off for years, and finally decided to jump on in...but it just seems too hard..I'm loosing steam and self confidence. I thought with my experience I knew pretty much everything...but when it comes down to paper...forget it!
Anybody got any suggestions?
This is really important to me, I plan on applying to CRNA program and would like this certification, not only for that but for personal reasons....
Can't live with myself right now....

[apaisRN]

I made a hundred million flashcards, or it seemed like it. Discrete pieces of information, like "what's a normal PA pressure" or "what EKG changes would you see in hyperkalemia." I used the Pass CCRN book and although it was dense, it was great. Are there specific areas you're not getting, maybe conditions you don't see very often? There's always a CCRN review course as well. I didn't do one, and I know people who have who passed and some who have and failed.

If you're really bombing practice exams, you might want to reschedule. It's not a trivial fee to take the test. I believe you pay a fee to reschedule but it's worth it if it makes the difference between passing and failing.

edited to add: I did pass in December 2004 with 119 of 125 correct, so I must have done something right.

[CCRNERIC]

the exam is really not that difficult. Dont get me wrong if you dont prepare for it youll bomb it, but it sounds like youll do just fine. pa pressures, hyper/kypo kalemia and ekg changes are a big part. review the pass ccrn cd and you will pass for sure.

[rstewart]

Originally Posted by CCRNERIC

the exam is really not that difficult. Dont get me wrong if you dont prepare for it youll bomb it, but it sounds like youll do just fine. pa pressures, hyper/kypo kalemia and ekg changes are a big part. review the pass ccrn cd and you will pass for sure.

I have to agree with this. In my opinion the test (like ACLS etc) has gotten considerably easier when compared with 10-15 years ago. So yea, do study----but relax cause you probably will pass.

[lashbyccrn]

I took/passed the exam on Jan. 19, 2005. I studied a bunch. Most of what I studied wasnt on the test. Of course, what I was weak on was on the test. I was really suprised that it was not that hard. Follow the blue print. Have a good understanding of the general concepts outlined. Know wour more common hemodynamic values...svr, pcwp, rap/cvp, pap. Know your shock states, basic vent settings and ABG's. I think the only other lab value I saw was an H/H....then I saw some weird ethical questions which i cant recall, and know that I missed. I finished the test in a little over an hour..took a b/r break and then retook/ checked every answer and still had 45 minutes left.
Take a big breath...you know this stuff...I was accepted to TCU CRNA program on 2/16/05...you will get there soon too...
Congrats in advance on passing your CCRN : :Melody: hatparty: :Melody:
LAshbyCCRN

Originally Posted by elizzy

I'm having some real anxiety over this exam...I've worked in ICU level 1 trauma center for 10 years, I have the Laura Gasparis DVD's and question review book, also the CCRN review book, and I feel like I'm not making any headway.
My test is on monday\Feb 28 and is what I'm feeling anxiety?
I can't concentrate or remember anything, I've been studying for a solid month at least 5-6 hours a day, sometimes more.
I've been reviewing and taking the practice tests and bombing!
I'm a pretty bright girl, I can usually retain just about anything I'm reading and for some reason this is just not sinking in.
I've been putting this test off for years, and finally decided to jump on in...but it just seems too hard..I'm loosing steam and self confidence. I thought with my experience I knew pretty much everything...but when it comes down to paper...forget it!
Anybody got any suggestions?
This is really important to me, I plan on applying to CRNA program and would like this certification, not only for that but for personal reasons....
Can't live with myself right now....

[elizzy]

...to all of you. And double congrats to Lashbyccrn!!:hatparty: :Melody:

I'll let ya know Monday! Got the weekend to review and I'm on it!!

[CCRNERIC]

one funny thing i remember that they asked three times in a row was if you should instill saline down a et tube. well we all know the lit. suggests that we shouldnt. I too overstudied, but it makes you a better nurse. Remember to keep reading articles after you take the exam. Nurses need more education in our field.

[lashbyccrn]

I AGREE.. ...EVERYTHING THAT I STUDIED FOR THE CCRN IS VALUABLE INFO

[elizzy]

...what a bear of an exam...My brain is mush right now...gonna sleep for a few days...
Thanks everyone for the advice....
Elizabeth, RN, CCRN
:hatparty:

[apaisRN]

Congratulations! Hope you had a martini or a nice dinner out to celebrate. Be proud of yourself, I am!