Passed NCLEX - 75 Questions

[biys75]

I know there are hundreds, if not thousands of these threads out there, but like many of you I relied on these threads for information and support throughout my NCLEX journey. I graduated Dec 2013 from an accelerated BSN program (3 semesters) with a 3.85/4.00 gpa. I began studying at the beginning of Jan and took my test 3 weeks later on the 24th. I read the Kaplan book (2012-2013) edition and answered the questions after each chapter. However, I didn't do the 265 question test at the end of the book (not enough time). I also reviewed a few chapters in Saunders to refresh my knowledge and answered the questions at the end of those chapters. I focused most of my knowledge content review on infection control, maternity, child development, priority and delegation. I didn't take the Kaplan course, but did find the Kaplan trainer questions online and took those tests. I answered the trainer questions in a study mode format (answering each question and then reading the answer and rational immediately after each question). This was a time consuming process, usually taking me 30 to 45 min per 10 questions. This time included me answering the question, reviewing the rational and taking notes (ended up with around 50 pages front/back of notes). I would answer 10 to 20 questions in one sitting, then take a break.

My scores:

Trainer 1 - 67%

Trainer 2 - 65%

Trainer 3 - 63%

Trainer 4 - 61%

Trainer 5 - not taken (no time)

Trainer 6 - 61%

Trainer 7 - 67%

That's it, I didn't study any other material or do Kaplan Qbank questions. I usually studied from 9am to 9pm taking breaks for breakfast, lunch, dinner and exercising. I also took one day per week off, didn't look at any material on those days and did activities I enjoy to take my mind off the books. I also didn't look at any material the day before the exam. On test day, my exam was at 2 pm. I scheduled it that way because I know my mind is more clear and focused in the afternoon than in the morning (this is important, schedule the exam during a time when your mind is most awake). I arrived 2 hours before my exam and reviewed my key notes and cram sheets for an hour before the exam. When you get into the exam room and you're ready to start, take a deep breath, try to relax and remain confident. Take your time answering the questions, read them carefully and rely on your training. I took almost two hours to answer 75 questions; I wasn't going to rush. I ended up with lots of SATA, priority, delegation, infection control and meds (but remember everyone's test is different).

Hope this helps, best of luck to you all. You got this - remain focused and CONFIDENT!!!

[Horsebytes]

Thanks for posting what you did to be successful. This is what people are looking for when they come to this forum! Congratulations!

[KatRNBSN2014]

Congratulations! Thanks for sharing how you prepared!

[AngelAsherah]

Congrats!

[Tesfanurse]

My test also ended with 75 questions. I am waiting for my results. Congrats!!!!!!!!!

[biys75]

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you Tesfanurse!

[ChazzW]

congrats to the OP & others that passed at 75. I took my exam today & passed at 75 (after failing it b4) in 2hrs (got the good pop up). the key to my success was the Hurst review course/book. I knew that book inside & out. Also, taking a break after i had failed it. I do not recommend this, but I did not study any book, after failing it, just some strips & infection control stuff, plus I was extremely relaxed when I took the exam & I did not doubt myself. If an option in select all that apply was false or it just did not make sense, I ignored it. I do not know the key to success, b/c I think it is different for everyone. for me when i took the exam and failed it, i went into the exam as a Fact exam & trying to remember facts. This time, I went into the exam relying on my long term memory for facts, and approached the exam from a safety & critical thinking perspective. plus i read each question at least 2 - 3 times. i feel anyone's pain when they fail & i wish you well on your journey to be an RN.

[biys75]

Congrats on crushing the NCLEX the 2nd time around ChazzW. That's awesome! You bring up a great point btw, many people approach the NCLEX relying just on facts (like a school exam) and that isn't the way to do it. Like you said, approaching the exam from a safety & critical thinking perspective is the way to go. While facts are important, the NCLEX requires the tester to use critical thinking while applying the facts. Plus approaching questions from the safely prospective is always a good bet. Keep in mind future testers, the nursing board understands you won't know everything (we're new grads), but they do want to make sure we can provide patient care in a safe manner. Safely and doing no harm is always top priority in nursing. Best of luck to all!!!

[ChazzW]

Biys75, thanks so much. I am just grateful and very humble. Much success to you.

[gailordfocker]

hey Biys75, im new and cant send private messages. You mind sending me one?

[biys75]

Gailordfocker......the same is true for me also. I guess we need 15 posts before we can send messages. I've already received a few that I can't reply too. Feel feel to ask in the comment section if you're comfortable doing so.

[Tesfanurse]

I just found out I passed with also 75 questions.