2nd time NCLEX-RN test taker, took the exam 2/4/13, and I PASSED!!!!

Hello NCLEX-RN test takers,

I wanted to share my experience taking the NCLEX-RN. I did not pass the first time and I was devasted!!!! I graduated November 2012 and took the NCLEX-RN in December 2012. I did the PVT when I got home, and it took me to the cc page. I don't what I did wrong, but I was completely heart broken!

After the holidays, I picked myself up again after many tears, and started studying again. I took my results that I received from the NCSBN and really focused on my weak areas. (I only had two!) Here are the resources that I used the second time. These resources are a must for anyone getting ready to take the exam, or have failed, and are taking it again:

1. NCSBN 5-week review course: You have to wait 45 days to take it again, so I did this while I waited to get my new ATT. The content is okay, but the questions are extremely helpful as the NCSBN writes the NCLEX-RN.

2. PDA by LaCharity: This is a MUST! I had many priority and delegation questions and this book is extremely helpful to tackle those type of questions.

3. Kaplan 2012-2013 strategy book: Very helpful when you get it down to two answers, and have to pick the correct answer. They give you strategies based on Maslow, ABC's, safety, etc.

My advice is to not worry about how many practice questions you got wrong or your percentages on practice exams! Do as MANY questions as you can and READ every single rationale, right or wrong. Really review infection control, priority, delegation, and practice select all that apply questions!!!!

I took the NCLEX-RN 2/4/13, did the PVT and got the "good" pop-up, and I found out this morning that I PASSED!!!! I am officially an RN, BSN!!

I want to add that it is okay to go the through the emotions of failing the NCLEX-RN. But, you have to pick yourself up and get back at it! Very hard to do, but I look back and realize it is not the end of the world. We have made it through nursing school, which is by far the hardest thing that we have done! You have to believe in yourself and in your capabilities. You can pass this exam!!! Good luck to the future test takers!!!