Just to let everyone know. I posted an updated version of my cpne study notes. What makes this so cool is that I had a tremendous amount of help from Lisa, a friend of mine who is a paramedic, er nurse, and recent graduate of excelsior college. Of course many of you know Lisa as the ever helpful Lunahrn. She did a significant amount of writing and editing of this document and did a great job with redoing my less than stellar "grid" drawings. Additionally, two more "grid" drawings were added to give a better idea of how to actually put one together step by step. Again, many thanks to Lisa for her help with this update. I couldn't have done it without her.
These notes cover material regarding what I did to pass the cpne. They are about 24 pages or so and include examples of the "grid". They basically cover:
4. The game plan for organizing your pcs using the infamous 'grid'.
5. Charting, evaluation phase.
I had no problems at the cpne. No repeats. I was told that I seemed to be really well prepared. I was able to remain calm and I was not nervous once I got going (just a wee bit a first though!). I honestly believe it was because of the way I prepared for the cpne. The trick is not magic. You just have to know this stuff cold. Backwards and forward. Second nature. Better than second nature. You get the point.
Disclaimer! In the process of updating these notes, I still may have missed something so double check everything when it comes to specific lab steps, policies, etc. Having said that, the approach is still sound and should serve you well.
If you have any questions don't pm, but instead post 'em here in case others have the same questions.
Good luck
Update 8-18-2011: Ii just read through the notes trying to decide whether or not to update them. I still think the approach is sound and current, but it is very likely that some of the areas of care (aoc) are different. Some aocs may have been removed, while others have been added. Additionally, the skill stations may be different now and rules regarding the nursing diagnoses and care plans may be different. Again, this is more about approach than any specific step at a skill station or aoc. If you see something that you feel is glaringly wrong in terms of the approach and current cpne guidelines please let me know.
