How did you pass the ANCC certification exam?

Nursing Students NP Students

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I've heard Margaret Fitzgeralds stuff is the best but seems like ANCC's stuff would focus more on the test content. I just graduated with my MSN FNP and want to get certified on the first try. Any suggestions?

Specializes in med-surg, psych, ER, school nurse-CRNP.

I took Barkley review and flunked my ACNP twice. Studied Fitz and Todd and passed with no problem. I go for my FNP next month, so I'll have dual certs. I agree, the more the better.

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I went to the Hollier review course a couple of weeks ago. She was very engaging, really helped me to pull together the information from my FNP program. She tells a lot of patient stories to help the information 'stick'. I have also been listening to Fitzgerald CDs, and I am considering Barkley CDs after having them recommended to me. I have not yet received OK to test from ANCC.

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Just wanted to know how are you guys studying for the theory/research portion of the ANCC. Any tips. Do you know of anyone who has taken ANCC after March 1st when the test content was revised? Most people who I have spoken with who did not pass ancc said that it was because of all the theory questions. They did well on the clinical questions.

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I flunked yesterday for the exact same reason. I had about 20 clinical questions and the rest were theory,policy and several "how would you respond" I was devastated. Its bad enough to fail but to fail of Theory, ect. not medical issues. I'm sigining up again. Glad to know that soemone else had the same issues. Any more questions give me a yell. Iam still shaking from it. nicole

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kelly,

i'm so sorry. i have heard the AANP is more clinical question/scenario based and i wonder if you would consider taking that one instead? i question the utility of the number of theory and statistics based questions on Boards.... i can understand having a moderate number but that many is ridiculous.

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Iam actually scheduled to take the AANP July 7th!!!! Iam sooo nervous after yesterday but I'll keep on plugging! Have you taken the AANP? If so how did you find it?

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I'm scheduled to take it July 22. i haven't taken it yet... nervous as hell.

what books are you using?

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I just sent in my application today for AANP. I took Hollier's (APEA) review course a few weeks ago and have been studying her notes along with her certification practice questions book with rationales. I also have been studying JoAnn Zerwekh FNP certification review book which is really good. It also comes with a CD with hundreds of practice questions.

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You name it, I'm either using it or have used it. I have to say that I don't find one review class or book to be better than the other. Best of luck!!!! If I have any pointers I will let you all know after the 7th.

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Specializes in ICU, Trauma, Anesthesia, Education, etc..

Awww KellyNP!

I am so sorry about the exam:hdvwl:

At least you know you're not alone. :hug:While it's "fresh" in your mind, what resource would you suggest using to study for the theory questions...a research book? A Carolyn Buppert book? Did you get the ANCC's own review book? It's on their website for $100 (for members). I wonder if it has some useful information in it.

Also, does it cost alot to retake the ANCC? You could just take the AANP and do the reciprocity thing for the ANCC. It may be less stressful for you.:crying2:

Also, I agree about the review courses. I have the latest editions of Fitzgerald, APEA and Barkley as well and I don't think any one of them is clearly the "best" one to get. They all cover different aspects of the same diseases and I think it only adds to my confusion and anxiety. And none of them really go into theory stuff!:brnfrt:

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Kelley, so sorry, I know how you feel. I recommend the AANP even though I had to take it twice.

I also found the Zerwekh excellent but recommend reviewing several for more information. What really sucks is having to PAY the full amount every time you test.

Keep plugging away and good luck to everyone. It is definately the most stressfull thing I've ever experienced!

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Kellynp & others in the same boat - I am really sorry that you didn't pass. PLEASE look at the retest policy on the ANCC website: ANCC Retesting Policy of Certification Candidates - American Nurses Credentialing Center - ANCC

-- according to their website and the Test Handbook, there is a minimum 60-day waiting period from the date you last tested to retake the exam. I don't think results from an exam on the 7th would be valid if you are taking the ANCC again. Sorry, I don't mean to be a wet blanket -- there are certain criteria they ask for (see the link above). Maybe I am misunderstanding and you are taking a different exam.

I took the exam (ANCC FNP exam) on 6-14 and did pass, but I thought it was difficult. According to ANCC's website, 50% is clinical/assessment, etc. and the other 50% research, policy, theory, etc. The 25 non-scored questions can be anything. It is pretty much a "blur" to me. I did study Fitzgerald pretty hard - but I also had the entire last semester to focus on clinicals & preparing for the exam. Most students I know just couldn't afford to do that (not saying I "could" .... but I was fortunate enough to have a kind employer and supportive family to allow me to do that).

Best wishes on the exam.

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