haliib

I think you are not upset about actually having to take the HESI or any exit exam, but more about how you were 'prepared' for it. I go to a school where we take a HESI after every class, so I feel very prepared for when I go into my exit HESI, but I remember my first HESI (for Health Assessment) was terrible! I completely understand why you are upset about being thrown this for an exit without any preparation. The grading system is weird, but I actually like it because it more closely simulates what happens in the NCLEX, by giving more credit for answering harder questions correctly.

I took it about a year ago, and it was 55 questions. I got a 99%. I am by no means a great test taker either. That is the best I have ever done. As a previous commenter said, its all about the ABC's. Or as my med/surg instructor told us, "What's going to kill my patient first?" SO, Review your major concepts, then remember Airway Breathing Circulation SAFETY And you will be fine.

I work 32 hours per week as a night shift CNA, as well as go to an accelerated BSN program (although mine is a total of 9 semesters, no breaks for a total of 3 years) and I can tell you it is brutal. If you want to work at the same time, you are really going to have to commit to your classes. If you can financially manage not working, then don't. But if you must, just know that you will have a lot of late nights, and it will be rough, but if you commit you can do it!

I use an app called 'SuperNote'. In addition to recording the lecture, you can add types notes or take pictures (of say a powerpoint) that attach to the recording. I then upload them to dropbox so I can listen to them on my computer. I also like this way as opposed to a hand held recorder, because I can plug it into my car and listen while I am driving. That time adds up!

I had the same situation as you, and I chose to try to get the grade. Unfortunately I failed. While I think that we can do anything we put our minds to, I wish I would have just dropped the course. It looks better on the transcript, and I am now one step closer to being dropped from the program. I am also thankful that I retook the course, I understood the material much better, and feel I will have no trouble with that come NCLEX time.