How to study for NCLEX?

swansonplace · Aug 22, 2013

I would 1. Concentrate on weak content based

2. Learn test taking strategies

3. Learn Prioritization, Delegation, and Management

4. Learn Pharm classes

5. Take the exam QUICKLY

jsorrick · Aug 23, 2013

Did you use any specific books or programs?

swansonplace · Aug 23, 2013

You know I was looking around for the best program, and they all seem to have something.

It depends on what you need. I personally like Feuer for content. Hurst is good for the very basic for content and it teaches you to think with the core information. La Charity for prioritization, delegation, and assignment is a must.

I have trouble with pharm so I am using Hurst, Feuer, and learning the endings of drugs. I just spend a little time each day reviewing this. But just knowing the core drugs, classifications and endings is probably sufficient as there are too many drugs, and this will give you the most information for your time.

It seems to me that the there is not a single blueprint that tells you everything to study. Every review site has a bit different information. So I think it is best to learn the core material so one can think with the material, and learn test taking strategies so one knows how to answer the questions. This would optimize your time.

I forgot to mention to work on test taking endurance. That is people are getting so tired during the test. So build up your ability to sit and answer questions, and be ready to not know 50% of the questions as don't let that throw you.

Just go with the one that you like and stick to it. Try and take the exam quickly as you start to forget info from school.

jsorrick · Aug 23, 2013

That sounds for very reasonable. Pharm is a difficult thing for most people I think. I was interested in hearing what other programs there are other than Kaplan (which you did more than provided). Thank you very much.

I don't want to hammer you with too many questions, but I did have one more. At my school we took the HESI exam a few times. The instructors claimed that it is a very reliable exam to indicate how you would do on the actual NCLEX. Have you heard the same or anything different?

swansonplace · Aug 23, 2013

That sounds for very reasonable. Pharm is a difficult thing for most people I think. I was interested in hearing what other programs there are other than Kaplan (which you did more than provided). Thank you very much.
I don't want to hammer you with too many questions, but I did have one more. At my school we took the HESI exam a few times. The instructors claimed that it is a very reliable exam to indicate how you would do on the actual NCLEX. Have you heard the same or anything different?

My school did not use the HESI exam. So I don't really know. We used the ATI exam, and I believe that I could have studied my weak points, and taken the exam from that. (I waited too long, and then needed to restudy.) As the information needed is the same. I believe that knowing core information is all you need. So if you believe you are ready, I would consider downloading the free trainer 6 or 7 from Kaplan, and testing yourself. If you score above 60 it is said that you are good to go on trainers 6 and 7.

Just to be on the safe side, I would also check to make sure I was passing in the main areas that nclex is broken down even though the above 60 is how most do it.

dentingh · Aug 23, 2013

I passed my NCLEX on third try. I was so overwhelmed with all the material out there, I studied from so many books. Finally, I took the NCSBN study guide course and used the RN exam cram. I prayed ALOT!!! I do not attend church regularly, but I do believe in the power of prayer! I prayed to St. Joseph of Cupertino for success in examinations daily! Do practice questions and read the rationales, I cannot express that enough. I also believe the NCSBN helped me tremendously. I would recommend NCSBN to everyone! Most important believe in yourself, BREATHE, and just tell yourself you got this! Good luck to you!!!

Say this prayer daily and before you go in to take the exam: O Great St. Joseph of Cupertino who while on earth did obtain from God the grace to be asked at your examination only the questions you knew, obtain for me a like favour in the examinations for which I am now preparing. In return I promise to make you known and cause you to be invoked.

Through Christ our Lord.

St. Joseph of Cupertino, Pray for us.

Amen.