FNP ANCC 2016 Exam

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Hello

So finally, I completed practicum and was awarded my degree. I have also submitted an application to the ANCC and the AANP. My problem is, I don't know what to expect on the exams.

Currently I am studying the LEIK and Fitzgerald review books. In addition I try to complete 100 questions per day. Also, I paid for the LEIK webinar review course. My mind is all over the place, and I feel like I am studying the wrong topics or ... too many topics!

Any advice or study tips will be greatly appreciated!

Taglas

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Specializes in Emergency Medicine.

If your putting in the time studying, the next thing is to be focused on what you need to be studying.

I started out with the Leik and Fitz Review books and using text books also, doing questions every day also.

Felt like I was studying all over the place, felt like I was retaining anything, ugh!

Talked to some class mates who recently took the test, some took both...everyone used the online Fitz review course.

Here's what I finally did and what worked for me, hope it helps:

Main study would be Fitz online review course - I would study each topic for 2-3 days watching the video modules and following along in the work book. At the end I would then cross reference and make notes using the other two books (Leiks and Fitz review books). I would re-do the modules, look at notes, use text books and internet to get further clarification on a subject (Kahn Academy has some great videos). I quit doing questions everyday and focused knowing the material.

I did the online practice exam that is included with the Fitz review a week or so before my exam date, did well and ran through my notes and re-watched some modules (they eventually became very monotonous and I realized that I had the information.

Test Day: ANCC

Used the highlighter tool to highlight pertinent information in each question, allowing me to slow down and focus on what the question was asking...it allowed me to even pick out the "gothca" answers for most of the questions.

I would take a break every 50 or so questions, get up stretch, get a drink of water, use the bathroom, etc. I marked a total of maybe 10 questions, went through and answered them and hit submit. I took 3 breaks and felt I went slow and finished in 3hrs.

* Make a plan and stick to it

* Study one topic at a time (not multiple topics a day)

* Know the material, don't memorize

* Test Day, slow down, use highlighter tool, take a break to relax

Good Luck!

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I'll be testing in early June since I graduate in May. Doing the Fitz live review in Boston in mid-May. ANCC exam changed in Feb 2016. Here is a link to the test domains, and how many questions are asked from each category. Leik book is out of date, but I use it to help pull things together. Have the Fitz and Barkley review books, which I study from daily. Board Vitals seems to be the most up to date review site, they have everything broken down by the content in the new domains. http://www.nursecredentialing.org/FamilyNP-TCO2016

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Thanks for the tips! I really appreciate your input. Yes, I am starting to realize just knowing the material is the best option to be successful on either exam.

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Thank you and congrats on the upcoming graduation! Happy studying!

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Talgas-FNP, did you post your email somewhere? I just realized you cannot reply to messages since you are new and haven't met the required number of posts.

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My email address is [email protected] :cat:

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

Hello folks-

I took the FNP exam and passed as well.

I completed the Fitzgerald online review course and took my time and completed all of her extra online tools as well. I read the Leik book front to back and did every question that she had in the book twice. I also purchased 2 online practice tests one from AANPCP and one from APEA. I scored in the upper 80's on one and low 90's on the other.

The beat advice I can give you is don't let anxiety rule this day. Take the anxiety by the horns and show her who's the boss. Eat a filling meal and take a deep breath.the key to anxiety is knowledge. The more you know the better you feel about taking the exam.

Good luck to everyone and I am happy to answer any questions..

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Time is ticking on. Three weeks to go ! Although it is my preference to sit for the ANCC, I actually scheduled both exams and will sit for the AANP prior to the ANCC.

Taglas

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Specializes in Emergency, CVICU, PICU, NICU, MICU, SICU.

I was in your boat as well. I wanted to take the ANCC and that was that. However, I like you scheduled both tests and took the AANP first. I passed the AANP and have to say that there is a great deal of weight lifted once you see that PASSED on your screen. Then I knew that I had the clinical part down so I studied all the ANCC theories, Laws, ethics, and cultural issues. My tests were 5 days apart and I went in for the ANCC without any anxiety or fear because I knew I had already passed the AANP. Review the ANCC materials and they have practice questions that you can purchase that are very helpful. Being dual boarded is an accomplishment and I would wager to say that you will be on here telling us how you passed. Good luck to you. Chin Up and Study hard

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Thank you! Your post is very encouraging. Many have asked WHY did I schedule both so close together. It brings me great confidence to know that taking and passing both exams in one week can be accomplished! Yes this is stressful... but necessary :)

Taglas

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Good luck on your exams!

Can I ask for input on the best value for dollar in terms of multiple choice question bank for clinicals, exam prep, identifying weak areas and preparing for MCQ tests and final licensing exam?

APEA seems really expensive...I have the Fitzgerald and Leik books, and the Fitzgerald app ($35) -- but want something more to put on my phone with rationales and tracking.

Thanks!

Julia

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