2nd time NCLEX

[MaleMurse]

My personal journey of NCLEX...

I'm not one to post much about my life on forums but after failing the NCLEX the first time, this forum really has really helped me in so many ways, which I am forever thankful for.

1st time - Used Kaplan course since my entire class did. Completed all the Q-trainers (averaged in the high 50's) and a good amount of the test bank questions (50's to 60's). I only studied Kaplan and did not use any other resources (which is my fault). I really do like Kaplan with their test-taking strategies and rationales but I do feel like they lacked in context (IMO). Felt confident going into the NCLEX, finished 150 questions in about two hours, computer shut off. Although I thought it was difficult, I felt confident that I passed, did the PVT and got the CC page It was a gut-wrenching feeling I will never forget. It felt like someone just ripped out my heart and stomped on it. I was at a loss of words and did not think it was reality. I took the next week off literally depressed and so down on myself. I think the hardest part was the idea that i had to face this monster again in a matter of time. There was no way around it. Then I turned to this forum for help. Reading all the personal stories of people in my similar situation, it helped me realize I wasn't alone. Reading their success stories has truly helped me pick myself up, stay positive, and get back on the daily grind.

2nd - After my first attempt and reassessing my weaknesses, I realized I was lacking in material/content and I knew I had to change it up. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing but good things to say about Kaplan and it was my fault for not using other resources and soley depending on it for everything. After some research, i decided to go with Saunders, Lippincott Q & A, LaCharity (Prioritization, Delegation, and Assignment), and an app I bought called NCLEX RN Mastery (a little expensive $25 but totally worth the money). Studied another 2 months and focused on content, especially pathophysiology and how everything affects/connects with one another. In addition, after my first attempt i knew they were going to ask me questions I had no idea about so i knew had to brush up on my critical thinking skills and process of elimination.

Took the test yesterday scared/nervous but better prepared and more equipped. First time I rushed through the test due to test anxiety and this time around, I made a valiant effort of taking my time and thoroughly reading every answer and eliminating one by one. I told myself I will not fail because of time. Took me around 2 hours to finish the first 75 questions. Ended up finishing with 178 questions with 2 hours left and computer shut off. Had about 30 SATA, 8 EKG, 1 drag and drop, and 2 dosage questions. Throughout the test, I did feel test anxiety and fatigue but constantly reminded myself to stay positive and take my time. To be honest, I left the room feeling defeated because I thought it was harder than the first time. Went outside, did the PVT and got the good pop up. Dropped to my knees, began tearing up, and yelled like maniac who has seen the light at the end of this dark tunnel. I know this is a little dramatic but this damn test really meant a lot to me and all the sacrifices i made to get to this point. As i write this, i still can't believe this is real and beyond euphoric.

Take home message....in retrospect, all the new additional material did help but NCLEX does really test on your critical thinking and decision making. No matter how much i studied, there was no way I would have known some of the stuff they were asking. I just took my time, read slowly, and eliminated the answers one by one. TAKE YOUR TIME, do not rush! i know it may sound silly but constantly remind yourself to focus and stay positive.

Anyways, I know I'm probably talking too much but I hope my story helps/inspires/motivates someone out there struggling in my similar situation. Doesn't matter what anyone else thinks, it's your life, your journey, and your future. Whether you pass on your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or etc. you will get there, it comes down to your mindset and never giving up. Stay positive my friends and more power to you! GOD BLESS!

[RNfindingherway, BSN, RN]

Way to go MaleMurse, Congrats. I am so proud of you. Enjoy your success.

[2013rn2BScorpio]

Congrats to you! 8 EKG WOW

[MissyNik]

Congrats MaleMurse....... I took the exam for the first time last weekend and I did the same thing with timing. I made sure not to rush through the first 75 then I picked up a little more then I took both breaks. For me the key was using the test taking strategies and I did sooooooooooooooo many practice questions.

[AngelAsherah]

Congrats!!! seems like you've been through a lot, I'm happy for you for making it and beating the monster! :) cheers!

[ac2meang]

Congrats!!!

time to celebrate....

[Ilovenursing.]

congratulations! thanks for sharing, so proud of you...

[Manga Rosa]

Thank you so very much for posting your experience, it's very inspiring! I'm taking it for the 2nd time sometime when the CA BRN can finally send my ATT letter. 1st time I was not prepared at all. This time I'm doing Kaplan, Sounders and Lippincott. I'm scared and anxious, but also knowing I'm doing all what I can righ now to prepare myself, tons of questions. Congratulations to you MaleMurse, cheers!!!!!

[Enca hand]

Congratulations. Having just moved into Illinois, I've not yet embarked on this journey but intend to start looking at applying for a licence here. I would be glad to hear from anyone who has recently applied for a licence to practice in Illinois state.

Thank you

[amygarside]

Congratulations. You're efforts have finally brought you to that position. Keep it up.