Nclex preparation help

Throughout nursing school we took various ATI tests which claim to be NCLEX prep tests. After graduation I took a Kaplan prep course which I would recommend, they taught me how to dissect the question and figure out what the question is actually asking. Their online practice exams are set up just like the NCLEX will be. The colors are the same, the buttons are the same, the timer is in the same corner, etc. That will help you get used to the look of the test and you'll be able to practice questions in whatever subject you choose (if you're weaker in Peds/OB you can focus on that, for example).

I believe the max amount of questions is 275, although I took it in 2011 so maybe it's changed? And they give you plenty of time (by the way, you can hide the timer..which I would suggest so you don't get anxious looking at the time running down). I ended up taking 75 questions and passed on the first time, fortunately. I'm pretty sure that everyone in my graduating class passed on the first time.

But honestly, if you fail and have to take it again..so what? The world won't end. It's okay if you don't pass the first time, trust me, you will still have the abilitiy to become a great nurse.

The room I was in was set up kind of like cubicles so everyone's computer screen was hidden from their neighbor. We had the option of using ear buds to drown out noise if needed. There was a proctor who sat behind a glass wall and watched everyone. There are also cameras. You'll have to leave everything (purse, phone, keys, etc.) in your car or in a locker outside the test room. They give you a piece of scratch paper and a pencil which you'll have to turn in after you're done.

There were other people there taking other tests. I think I had some people in there that were taking a test for appraisers, so don't pay attention to others as their test may be longer or shorter than yours. When someone leaves, that doesn't mean they just finished their NCLEX. Also, people will be coming and going, hence the ear buds.

I barely had any experience in a healthcare field. The summer before my senior year I worked as a CNA and worked randomly throughout the year and I was still hired. You've had plenty of experience through clinicals, but keep in mind that the first 6 months-1 year you will feel like you know nothing (at least I did). A lot of nursing comes from experience as a nurse, so find a good preceptor and enjoy it!

Good luck and just breathe!