NCLEX-Don't Give Up!

11 Posts

Specializes in Psychology.

Hi Everyone! I wanted to share my story in case it can help someone else out or even just instill a little hope! I graduated from Nursing School in May of 2013. I attempted the NCLEX for the 1st time in July/2013. Like most nursing grads, I planned/hoped to pass on my first attempt but unfortunately that wasn't the case. I was devastated when I found out I failed. And I was also pregnant at the time, so I decided to have my son and attempt the NCLEX again after he was born. Between having a baby and life in general, my 2nd attempt wasn't until January/2014 and again, I found out I had failed. This time I was beyond discouraged. BUT I didn't give up. That is when I joined this community and asked for study tips/advice/support (which helped me IMMENSELY). And my 3rd and final attempt at the NCLEX was this month, July/2015 and I PASSED!!! All 3 times, I made it to 265 questions!! (UGHHH) So you can imagine that when I made it to 265 the 3rd time that I was a little discouraged. But after passing question 75, I took a break, gave myself a pep talk in the mirror in the bathroom, and just focused and took my time. I did the PVT trick each time and it worked for me. The first 2 times I got the bad pop up but the 3rd time it said "another registration could not be made at this time". So in my opinion (for the doubters out there) I believe the PVT trick is 100% accurate. I also purchased the Quick Results all 3 times to confirm. I will include my study materials/methods below.

My Study Methods:

For the 1st attempt, I used the Kaplan Book and Saunders-thinking that I was just out of nursing school and didn't need much more. I read the Kaplan book cover to cover, and took the test at the end of the book. I also went through the Saunders book, looking at material I was weak in and doing the questions.

2nd attempt-I used Kaplan Book, Hurst Book, Saunders, NCSBN 3 week prep course, and Kaplan Medication Flash Cards. Did questions in the books, reviewed weak content, did the full NCSBN course and also did questions online (any I could find for free).

3rd (SUCCESSFUL) attempt-I SOLEY did the online Hurst Review-I felt being out of school for 2 years-I needed an in depth content review. I watched every lecture once, including the specialty lectures. I then went through each lecture packet and would write out questions in a notebook so I could test myself on the material. I did this with each packet until I knew the material without a doubt. I then did 3 Q-Bank Tests. I gave myself 4 weeks to do all this. I went into the NCLEX feeling adequately prepared.

Good Luck to everyone attempting the NCLEX! Whether it is your 1st or 6th time, YOU CAN DO IT! Don't give up! If anyone has any questions or just needs to vent to someone who didn't pass the 1st time, please feel free to message me! :)