Don't Panic! Many grads I have talked to felt like they were not prepared to take the test, and then were so surprised when they passed- including me! You know more than you think you do- work with a study guide or two- I used lippencott and springhouse, my friend brought her saunders to study group the last few weeks ( meaning she and I got together for a couple hours once a week), and we were both convinced we would never be ready. Instead, we both passed.
Use the cd's that come with the study guides- they really help you get used to the computerized test, and get you comfortable with it.
review the basics, like most important lab values, that you are weak in.
I noticed from those I've talked to and alot of posts here, one way the test works is it seeks out your weak areas and then hits you there over and over. Mine was kids, also L&D. So of course, those were many of the questions I got. I think if you get a question wrong, then you keep getting that subject again. So, as you use the cd's, try to keep a count of where your weak spots are, and do more study on them.
To me, there were many priority questions, but with a twist. The real point was to see if you knew how sick each patient was- as in one has this lab value, the next another- which is more important to deal with?? If you do not know your labs, you cannot begin to answer the question. Very sneaky... ( I hope I'm not going into too much detail, mod?).
I could go on all night, but you get the idea. You do not have to memorize everything that was said in school- can't be done. Just reinforce the weak spots in your basics, and use a study guide or two of your chosing, and most important, start combating that test now stress now, and do not allow it to stop you. You do know what you need already, just refresh and get that test over with!
And congrats to the new Grad!!!
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