NCLEX and Diabetes

[DiabeticNurse101]

Hi there, I am a type 1 diabetic and anticipate taking the NCLEX in the next couple of months. I want to know whether it's worth it to complete the accommodations form for the exam? I am on an insulin pump so is the testing center OK with us using our pumps to blous/correct as needed? Do you get to use the bathroom whenever you need? Can I go grab a juice if I get low? Any information would be helpful! Thanks in advance 

[rob4546, ADN, BSN, MSN]

Hello DiabeticNurse101.  I would not request special accommodations as they can take months to be approved, delaying your possible testing date.  It is EBP that students should take the NCLEX as soon as they graduate to improve their chances of passing.  Waiting a month can decrease these chances.  Not only that, but an insulin pump is not an accommodation, I believe.

I had one of our students test with an insulin pump last week, and it was allowed.  Always take precautions for your health.  Eat a complex carbohydrate before you go in to test.  The proctors at the exam will inspect the insulin pump for irregularities, but it should not be a problem.  For what it's worth, my student passed taking 85 questions.  I wish you the same luck.