nkh1223

I agree with the above.. have them pay if they want to speed up the process. I graduated in May 2013, applied right after I graduated and received my authorization to test a few weeks later. I would not pay the extra money... because as soon as I got my authorization, I would've been able to test a week later. There were plenty of test date options so I could've taken it really soon or really late. I graduated in May and did some review here and there, but didn't really study hardcore. I did practice tests 2 weeks before I tested which I bought from familynpprep.com... which I highly, HIGHLY recommend. I test at the end of July and passed on the first try. Good luck!

I agree with the above. I've been working night for 7 years and that was the best way to get back on a "normal schedule."

I agree. HTN and DM meds. Know your cranial nerves, Piaget's theory, expected growth and development, cultural norms with communication, HIPPA and Medicare/Medicaid. If you want practice tests, I highly recommend familynpprep.com. 75% of my reviewing was through taking the practice exams. Worth every penny!

Make sure you have a great preceptor. And if you don't, speak up! This is so important. Clinicals is the time for you to "practice."

I was 23 when I started my MSN program and felt the same thing. Luckily, I knew a couple of girls in the program, 2 of which are in their mid 30's and one was 25. I never felt that people looked at me differently because I was so young. Honestly, the older students were more scared than I was and always wanted to buddy up with us because it had been so long since they had been students. Try not to worry about it... having your Master's at 26 is pretty awesome!!!

I purchased the Fitzgerald CDs and study guide from her website. I've heard if you are going to attend the live workshops to make sure it is actually presented by her and not one of her colleagues. I guess some people have not had the greatest experience with some of the lectures. I listened to about the 6th CD and couldn't do it anymore. I needed something else to review. I lurked around the boards here and read other NP's advice. I just passed the ANCC FNP exam on my first try and 75% of my studying was through familynpprep.com. The exams are so close to the real exams that it's scary! The explanations provide great information to answer questions that are similar but not exactly the same. I would highly, highly recommend!

One of my preceptors took her first job in a state prison. She didn't love the job, but took it because they were welcoming of a new grad. She did caution me that they monitored very closely when they sent patients out for referral. She had a patient with an acute abdomen who she sent to the ER and they were very particular about her clinical evaluation. They gave her trouble when she sent the patient out, and the patient ended up requiring emergent surgery! She stayed for 6 months and then left. I would think there would be some kind of mental preparation needed for a job like that. If you think you would like it and it would contribute to your growth as a professional, definitely consider it!