Failing ANCC Practice Exams for PMHNP

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Hi All!

I'm scheduled to take my PMHNP certification exam on June 4th. I've been studying for two months (for approximately 2-3 hours each day), and my study materials have included thoroughly reviewing the Barkley book/CDs, the ANCC review book, and the ANCC chapter quizzes on Quizlet. Additionally, I created my own set of flashcards on all of the information in both review books (I have over 400 handwritten flashcards!). However, my confidence takes a hit whenever I take the ANA practice exams - I received around a 50% on my first practice exam. I thoroughly reviewed the questions and rationales (and took the test several times over again). I thought I was well prepared for the second practice exam...but I failed that one too! I scored a 59% (which isn't anywhere near the 75% passing score). I feel defeated - I've studied so hard, and I can't even pass the practice exams! Does anyone know how the practice exams relate to the real exam? Are the practice exams harder? I don't know how else to study!

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Specializes in Outpatient Psychiatry.

What kind of questions are you being asked? If they're generally oriented to something of a clinical nature, I'll tell you it wasn't on my ANCC test. What WAS on my test was a rash of crap that had nothing to do with being a clinical NP. I managed to pass, but admittedly most answers were flat out guesses.

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Specializes in Psych.

Do you have test anxiety, and if so have you considered your coping mechanisms.

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