How many times can you take over EC clinical test??

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2008

Three.

Baloney Amputation, BSN, LPN, RN · Jul 4, 2008

It's three like Suesquatch said. From reading around it seems that quite a few really well-prepared people fail the first time due to various reasons (nerves, fear of the unknown, unable to fully pick themselves up and start new after a mistake, small technicalities, etc.) but then nail it with no problem the second or sometimes even the third time around.

caliotter3 · Jul 4, 2008

If you do not pass the CPNE on your third try, you are dismissed from the nursing program. There are rules for appeal in extraordinary circumstances, but rarely does anyone win on appeal.

Melinurse · Jul 4, 2008

Like Suesquatch said, only 3 times. LOTS of testers don't make it the first time ( regardless of how smart and well prepared they are ) but do very well the second or third time. Don't be discouraged. If you don't make it the first time, think of it as your practice and nail it the next time. :up: The CA's and some CE's give advise if you do or don't do well, listen and absorb everything they say about your performance.:stdnrsrck:

bethinct · Jul 5, 2008

THREE?? OMG! No wonder everyone is so nervous of it,lol. I guess if I take several workshops, I should be ok.

I am the type to crumble under stress, so this really freaks me out!!

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2008

THREE?? OMG! No wonder everyone is so nervous of it,lol. I guess if I take several workshops, I should be ok.
I am the type to crumble under stress, so this really freaks me out!!

Beth, I was really well-prepared for it. I've worked the floor, there are no skills I haven't performed aside from IV push, and nerves did me RIGHT in.

I would really, really suggest you find some relazxation techniques to employ.

Baloney Amputation, BSN, LPN, RN · Jul 5, 2008

The whole darned program requires nerves of steel. Some people are quite intelligent and would know the concepts material inside and out but falter on exams because of test anxiety. To think that a couple of hours of test time is your fate on the class is quite overwhelming.

When the CPNE comes around, though (and I haven't taken it yet), there is this incredibly long wait with high cost that many people pay for out of pocket. You know if you don't pass it then, you may be waiting for another several months. Hopefully I'm not sick with something or with a case of my crawl-on-the-floor menstrual cramps or that my asthma is not acting up when the big date comes. (I already think about these things!) Someone looking over your shoulder for all skills would be a bit unnerving, especially if you're used to a fair amount of independence on the job. It does appear that people who are capable of being a good RN do eventually pass the thing, but often not the first time.

blinks14 · Jul 6, 2008

I have to agree with all the other posters. You must have your nerves under control. I know when I took the CPNE about a month ago there were times during the PCSs I was FREAKING out but you have to keep it under wraps. You can't let it over take you. My hints for that are to prepare yourself really well but relax the week before the exam. Seriously, I did no studying to be exact except for reviewing my critical elements, the week before. The day before I left for the exam I got a pedicure and a massage. I also made sure to take things to help me sleep while at the exam. And every morning when I woke up I took half a Xanax to take the edge off and that way it was working by the time I got to the hospital.

Jessica, GN