Passed NCLEX-RN... a word of encouragement.

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Hello all,

I just wanted to write a note of encouragement to those out there who have yet to take their NCLEX exam. I took mine on 2/13/12 and after 75 questions and only an hour of logged time my computer shut off. I was in such a daze during the test. I can hardly remember it and I know that I was past the point of caring, which isn't good but I wanted it to be over with! I did the Pearson Vue trick and it worked!! I looked online 2 days later (today) at the Boards of Nursing site and was able to look up my license number. I didn't even do quick results because they are available yet.

The past couple of weeks before my test was the worst anxiety and hopelessness I have ever endured. My emotions were up and down. I waited two months after graduation to take it because I was worried I wasn't ready. During those 2 months, I studied but not like I should have. I knew I didn't study enought but I just kept putting it off. I rented 3 NCLEX study books for fear that I needed a variety to keep me sharp. One book I didn't even look at. Waste of money.

Let me give you all a bit of history of myself, I feel that it will help someone who struggles with confidence and is a self-doubter and constant worrier. I am a great student, I get great grades and I am pretty intelligent. Says everyone I know, in my eyes, I could always do better, and I don't see myself as the capable person my family and friends do. I would suggest to someone who is like me, to give yourself a break. Stop being so hard on yourself because if you had gotten through your nursing program, you are good enough and you are obviously a smart cookie!

Now, I will get into the specifics of my test because that is all I cared about when I was looking on these forums.

I had several SATA questions. (THIS IS A GOOD SIGN , BUT I HATE THEM).

Several OB. ( I did not study one bit of OB, but I did well in that portion during school).

A few meds

No dosage calc.

Several general med-surg, perioperative questions

Several diet/nutrition questions

A few diabetes questions

Other: can't remember

Don't focus so much on reviewing content. Just do practice questions every day. Do 100 a day and it will benefit more than anything.

Mostly, I would focus on reviews that help you with interpreting the questions. You have a great foundation of knowledge that will help you find the correct answer even if you do not know the answer based on whether you read the question correctly.

Focus on ABC's

Assessment first, then you Implement, then Evaluate

Never select an answer that isn't nursing... don't refer to dietary, almost always notify phsyician isn't correct. They want to know what you as the nurse are going to do.

Follow Maslow's Hierarchy: (Pain for the NCLEX = psychosocial.)

Focus on wording : ex. need further teaching = answer is the one that is incorrect

Reword the question. Ex. (taken from Kaplan review book)

A contruction worker is admitted to the hospital for treatment of active tuberculosis (TB). The nurse teaches the client about TB. Which of the following statements by the client indicates to the nurse that further teaching is necessary?

Reworded: What is incorrect information about TB?

Turn SATA's into True/False - Take each given answer and turn the question into a true false statement.

BOOKS I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:

Saunders Comprehensive Review Book - use the CD for questions... great book!

Kaplan Review Book - Great for learning test-taking strategies and components of the exam.

Stick with one book and see it through!!!! Don't rent/buy 3 books like I did. Waste of money.

Some of you may read this and go good for you. You were able to do it, I may not be. That is exactly how I felt when reading these forums. You can do it. If I can do it then you definitely can do it. Pray. Pray to God to help you through this difficult time.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

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Congrats and thanks for the encouragement. I really like that Bible verse by Jeremiah; Beautiful reminder!

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Thank you for the words of encouragement. It truly means a lot.

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Thank you so much for this post. I have been trying to work on my confidence because I also struggle with self doubt. Congrats to you and thanks for the post!!:hug:

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Specializes in Obstetrics.

I took it on the 13th as well and am desperately waiting for my quick results. CONGRATS to you! I am so happy for you!

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Congratulations to you! We sound very much alike. I too was a great student and as I sit here studying for my nclex (which I am taking on the 27th) I am full of self doubt. Thanks for your post!

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CONGRATS & thanks so much for the encouragement i take my test in the am!!! and the scripture perfect i say it everyday !!!

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Omg as I was reading this I was wondering when I wrote this, especially since I haven't even taken my test yet! Lol. Wonderful words of encouragement. I'm glad to see so many people passing. It gives me hope that I too can get over this!

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Congrats on passing!!! And thank you soo much for the encouragement, I'm taking my exam in about 2 weeks and the anxiety level is soo high so I appreciate you taking the time out to support the rest of us!

Congrats again!!:yeah:

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You can also check online at your State's Boards of Nursing website for your license number. Look up your name and see if it pops up, that is what I did. I didn't even use quick results! I will pray for you!!

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I just want to say to everyone that probably for the rest of my life during my bedtime prayers I will include one for those taking the NCLEX. It was one of the most difficult, stressful, and worrisome times in my life. I am so thankful to be past it and I know all of you will get there too. Treat yourself after the exam. I frankly, had the most fattening meal ever and a few drinks and LOVED it. Today I bought myself scrubs for my new job and I am so excited. You can do it and the weight of the world will lift off your shoulders! Stay strong and believe!

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CONGRATULATIONS to u.

Ur posting is so simple and to the point.

CONFIDENCE and HOPE that is wht i am lacking.

Thank u so much for word of encouragement.

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