Hey guys! I'm making this post to give support to my fellow nursing students who failed there exam on there first or 2nd attempt. First thing... IT WILL BE OKAY! YOU ARE NOT ALONE AND YOU WILL PASS EVENTUALLY. I found after I failed there was no resources on what to do especially anything up to date.
I find reasons why students don't pass there first time is reading too much into the question, guessing answers or changing your original correct answer.
Heres a list of tips on how to finally pass your CPNRE:
1.) Find what works for you and study wise.
Personally, I had so much advice on using all types of resources - Uworld, PN mastery, mosbys, Saunders, prep courses, tutors. There is a lot of sources out there to help you succeed but what kind of learner are you? And what are your areas of WEAKNESS?
What worked best for me was "Saunders NCLEX-PN review textbook" (Yes guys you will need to do some serious readings if you want to pass, but as you read you will find a lot of valuable information). This textbook has all the information you need.
The great thing about Saunders is that it comes with a online learning program inside the book. You can login with the access code and use the program right away. I strongly recommend using this program along with reading the textbook.
2.) Limit your resources. I used my NCLEX saunders book and the program that comes with the textbook. If you have 4 study aids you cause yourself more confusion and anxiety. You only need two study aids. Prep courses? In my opinion, not worth it. UNLESS English is your second language and/or you've been out of school for a while. Even then, they are money grabs. I spent $1000 on a prep course in Toronto offered through bayc.ca and it didnt teach me to my learning needs. It was a classroom (also what I didnt like, I'd prefer a one on one tutor) so there wasn't much interaction between the teacher and student. You can teach yourself, you can study and pass on your own.
3.) Use the PREDICTOR TEST. I wouldn't recommend purchasing the prep guide, but purchase the predictor test. Its $40, 85 questions and that will show your readiness for the CPNRE. I'd suggest purchase the predictor test before you start studying to see your areas for improvement. They offer only one predictor test with a set of questions. You will only need to purchase it once.
4.) Study groups? They have there advantages and disadvantages. Share your study habits, ideas, help one an another. But spend quality time studying alone. Brainstorm ideas with peers and practice questions together. Your area of weakness may be there area of strength or vice versa. Ensure you study your own areas of weaknesses.
5.) Dedicate 1-2hours of quality study time a day. Use this time to read over the chapters in your Saunders book, highlight, take notes and do the review questions at the end of the chapters. Spend time reviewing question in the using the program that comes with the book.
6.) RELAX. THINK POSITIVE. YOU ARE WORTHY and you passed nursing school. You can and will pass your CPNRE. and once you get how to approach the question, you get it and it will be a breeze.
As nurses we are here to help eachother, feel free to post and add comments on how you succeeded in passing. Thanks guys!
