In need of advice

[Ebank831]

Hello all! I am here seeking advice about retaking my nclex exam for the 3rd time and finding employment. I have been out of school for over 4 years now, and still needing to pass my exam. My prior 2 times taking the exam were once right after graduating, and then again almost 1 year later. After failing the 2nd time, I got discouraged and busy being a new mom to 2 young children, so I guess I gave up. Now that my oldest is about to start pre-k, I feel like it's time to get my career going and find myself again. I just keeping wondering if I will even be able to pass after being out of school for so long and if I do pass would someone even hire a nurse who took over 4 years to pass the exam with no experience working as a nurse? I worked so hard to get through nursing school and I will never forgive myself if I never pass this test. That being said, is there anyone who has been in a similar situation and been able to pass the test and get a job as an RN? What would you recommend as far as study materials, programs, words of encouragement, etc.? I don't even know where to begin to pick up the pieces of my shattered confidence in nursing and pursue this test again! Any advice is greatly appreciated :)

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

if you went to a brick and mortar school, call to see if they will allow you to use the computer lab. They probably have practice tests and test-taking strategies on some programs. You might consider taking a review course of some type. Another option is to pay a recent grad, or even an instructor, to tutor you for whatever amount of time you can afford. As for hiring, you need to determine who is needing staff in your area. Do surgery centers need nurses more than the hospital, or does home health or hospice or an LTC facility? This will involve making lots of applicatons. Yes, someone will give you a chance, you just need to find that person. Good luck!

[roser13, ASN, RN]

You will need to research both NCLEX requirements and your state's BON. Either or both may have time parameters with regard to graduation from an accredited nursing school and taking the exam.

Regardless, you would definitely benefit from a refresher course. A lot can change in 4 years, and you would possibly benefit from making connections to potential employers through the course.