vjcnurse

I'm curious to see what types of testing techniques everyone is used to, and I'm curious to see how this effected your success on the NCLEX. So, first take the poll, and then tell me how your testing ability for the NCLEX was effected. Thanks so much!

They have two other children. I recently found out that transportation and childcare is an issue, but at the same time I'm forced to judge a little. I don't have children myself, but I feel like if I did, I would do whatever it took to be with my dying child. It's hard for me to put myself in their position since I can't relate what-so-ever, but I just feel like there are ways to work out situations like these. I've been feeling a little better about things since I realize that I am this child's family while I'm working. I feel like he knows I am here for him.

I haven't had a crush on any doctors at my work yet. It's funny because women docs out-number male docs at my hospital. But, I did have a crush on a respiratory therapist once. But I took some time off during nursing school, and when I returned after graduation, he was gone. I was so upset. But...as we most are, I am in a relationship where I am extremely happy. We aren't married yet, but we are on that path!:blushkiss

The difference between computer and paper/pencil tests (to me anyway) is the freedom. With paper/pencil tests (which is all I took in college), I was able to write all over the test, underline key points/words, cross out info that wasn't needed, skip a question and return later, and things of that nature. Since I am not really used to computerized exams, it is difficult for me to get used to not having those abilities. I agree that not having essays is wonderful, but to me that's really the only positive aspect of computerized exams. When I told some of the nurses at work who took the paper/pencil form of the NCLEX that I have failed twice, they said if they had to take it on the computer they wouldn't be able to pass it now. It's all based on what you are accustomed to. Your idea of a poll is great. I'm curious to see what kinds of results we end up with. Since I'm new at this site, I'm not sure how to do a poll...can you help?!

Thank you to everyone for your wonderful words of encouragement. I do feel like I am the this baby's angel, and that's okay with me. I knew what I was getting into when I accepted my job. I've only been there a year and this is my first death and dying experience. Your support is greatly appreciated and will be held in my thoughts each day I watch this child die. Your wisdom will help me get through it knowing that I have a support system at this site. Thanks again to all!

I got the Alpro C202's...they are fabulous!!

Just a little tid bit of opinion...I just ordered and recieved new birkenstock nursing shoes and they are wonderful!! They are a little expensive, but I'll tell you what...they are so comfortable, it feels like your in your socks. I suggest anyone who is flat-footed to invest in a pair! They are great!

Thank you very much for the advice and confidence. I believe it may be the computers. In college, I had a tutor for testing strategies and a very supportive and smart study group! I have asked on member of my study group to tutor me for the boards and she has agreed. I have also made a doctors appointment to have her check out my anxiety levels and give me either coping strategies, or medication if absolutely necessary. Hopefully something will work this time. Thanks again!!

I currently have a nine-month-old patient who has come to my hospital to die. When he first arrived, he was weaned from his CPAP and was taken off all meds, but we were still feeding him and giving him morphine. Now, his parents decided that they don't want that anymore. He is now back on a nasal canula and is on CPAP PRN with codes, yet he is a DNR. I am confused about me feelings of this. It seems to me that his parents are just prolonging the inevitable. I understand that it has got to be a horrible decision for any parent to make, but these parents are never around. They never visit him, they just call maybe once a day to check on his status. I've actually seen them just once. I just don't know what to think of it. Any advice on how to cope?

I guess last night when I wrote that I was a little upset. I do understand the policy, and did agree upon it when I started. At the same time, I am just extremely frustrated with myself. I know I am better than what my test scores show. I guess I just needed to vent and get the honest feedback that ya'll have given me. Thanks for being blunt and putting me in my place. Now, any helpful advice on how I can be successful the third time around?

The best advice I can give as a new grad is keep the faith! If you come to a minor road block, knock if over and keep going. Nurses go through hell to get that "RN" after their name, but when it's all said and done, you look back and say, "I can't believe I actually did it!!" It's such an achievment. While you are in the process, you may feel like pulling out your hair. But don't! You'll see in the end, the sleepless nights and 24-hour cram sessions are well worth it, I promise!! Good luck to you.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!:balloons:

Well, I found out today that I failed the boards a second time. I am having a hard time with it this time because my hospital (I am currently a CNA) may have to let me go. The policy is that you get two tries at the test, then after that they don't want you anymore. How crazy is that?? I have to work tomorrow, and if my manager says that she has to let me go, you better belive that I am taking it up with the big wigs. It's ridiculous that an hospital is going to base its hiring new RNs based on how many times it took her/him to pass the damn test. I have test anxiety, and did all through high school and college. The test shows nothing of my ability to be a great nurse. I love what I do and am very passionate about it. The test says nothing except that I am a horrible test taker. Does anyone agree that my place of work should not hold that against me??

I definitely feel your pain...I just failed for the second time. I took the test on Monday, and found out I failed today. I took Kaplan for my first time and it didn't help me one bit, but it definitely depends on what the best studying strategy is for you. It has helped many of my friends, but not me personally. Just keep at it. I feel like everything happens for a reason, and for some reason that only God knows, you were meant to pass yet. That's how I look at it. We will all make it! You are going to be a great nurse. I can tell because you sound like a very dedicated person. Don't let it get you down! Good luck to you. I'll say a prayer! Say one for me too...lol!!