New student checking in

[RNClassof2020]

Hello, everyone. I am starting the RN courses this fall at my local college. I have a prior background in law enforcement and a Pre-Law degree and Paralegal certification. I chose this field because it is my passion and probably where I should have been all along. I am looking for advice and any helpful information to make it through this program.

I have bought a NCLEX RN preparation book with practice exams (Princeton Review). I took a full-length test and scored a 51%. I took this to serve as a baseline prior to beginning my classes. I am not sure if the scoring is similar to the actual NCLEX or if it differs. Has anyone had any experience with Princeton Review or should I select another book that will be reflective of the actual exam?

Thanks!

[whywait, BSN, RN]

Congratulations on being able to follow what you are passionate about.

In all honesty you should find supplemental books which focuses on the core nursing classes you are about to take.

The reason I say this is because nursing school is a monster you have to defeat and pass first before taking the nclex.

The nclex in itself is a beast and without a strong foundation to what nursing is about, I believe studying for the nclex at this time can be confusing. You have to understand what nurses can or cannot do, what other disciplines you will be working with, how to prioritize as a nurse, the laws and rules nurses must abide by, and how to delegate. Understand disease processes, treatment plans and prevention.

The nclex books and or other nclex resources will teach you how to approach an nclex style question and or how to use critical thinking to answer an nclex question. However, the nclex books might not help as much in your core classes which you need to pass and focus on first.

There are great resources out there to help you pass the nclex (i.e UWorld) when it is time to take it.

The reason I say to focus on your core classes is because exams from your core classes will be specifically focused on that particular subject. Whereas, the nclex is extremely broad and without a strong foundation studying for the nclex can be daunting.

I hope this helps, good luck on your nursing school.

[Rionoir, ADN, RN]

Learn the material and stop worrying about the NCLEX. You're getting way the hell ahead of yourself lol

[ItsThatJenGirl, CNA]

I've been practicing NCLEX questions since before I started, too. It's a good way to get a feel for the types of questions you're going to see throughout.

I found an app called RN Mentor that mimics ATI a lot, and has come in handy. It's free.

[MiladyMalarkey, ASN, BSN]

You may be getting ahead of yourself. I'd focus more on beginning to understand the basics of nursing. Kinda have to know the material before you can critically think your way through NCLEX like questions.