Do CAP exams really prepare you for the NCLEX?

Vsummer1 · Nov 12, 2003

I have taken CAP exams, which were fill in the bubble type. I have also taken HESI's, which are on the computer.

The questions are similar in these tests, and supposedly like the NCLEX (which I have not taken). HOWEVER, the HESI mimics the exact way you will take the NCLEX on the computer. And I am so glad they changed to HESI at our school because I make stupid typo errors that I would hate to make on the "real thing". It also offers you the chance to review your mistakes with rationales, and I find that immensely more helpful than the CAP.

I would suggest you get a NCLEX review book with CD, and use that to study. You really have to get used to the style of questions they are going to give you, and if you feel you are not doing well on the CAP then you just need to practice taking this style of test. Above national average ain't bad though!!

GOOD LUCK!!

NeuroICURN · Nov 12, 2003

Well, to be quite honest, I think taking the CAP tests do help! In the program that I attended, we had to take the CAP tests from the very first semester...and for some of our classes, we actually had to pass the CAP test IN ADDITION to the regular course content.

Also, the last semester, we took a CAP test which was supposed to be the "true" indicator of whether or not you would pass your boards on the first try. According to my results, I had a 100% chance of passing state boards on the first try, and I did (also in the minimum number of questions). So, do they actually help? I can't say that, but they definately don't hurt! It forces you to get accustomed to the state boards format...and you take a test that isn't just focused on specific test content (like normal class tests).

However, when all is said and done, what matters is "did you study"??? Taking and passing the state boards isn't something that you can cram for....you have to have basic knowledge to be a safe nurse and you have to study all along!

Best of luck to you!