I am now a RN.. some tips!

congratulations!

did you start a gn position after graduation? if so, what clinical area? i am a firm believer that working as a gn asap after graduation is the best preparation for nclex. unfortunately, some states no longer allow it. i believe that is a downside of computer-based testing. back in the "olden days" when nclex was only offered twice a year, most grads worked as gns, and i believe nclex pass rates were higher then.

again, congratulations!

thanks. yes, i started right away because i already worked for my hospital as a nurse extern. however, my state does not allow new grads to work as gns. so, i did not pass meds; perform invasive procedures, etc... on the other hand, i was allowed to do everything else a rn can do and was being trained on orientation similar to a new grad rn... i agree that it helped me a great deal to think like a rn on my exam because i was able to continue to provide patient care after nursing school and watch rns do the same. in contrast, now i have to get back into the role of passing meds again after taking a break.

thus, i agree and that state bons that do not allow new grads to work as gns, should change their minds. this way there is not a break in passing medications. however, i think that the reason it is not allowed by many states is a fear of liability unlike the past. in any case, i plan to continue to be on orientation for a while so that should give me a chance to become comfortable with my new role.