studying for CMSRN exam

AJJKRN · Jan 7, 2015

Depending on your exposure you will probably blow this out of the water with out much prep! I've only had three years experience, studied a lot less than I should have, and just passed this December. I would review labs just for your own stress relief. I used the 3rd edition AMSN Core Curriculum for Med-Surg Nursing. Almost every question I was asked really had more to do with experience than rote memory anyways. You will rock it!!! Oh, if you're not a member of AMSN it might be a good idea to join because of the perks it offers...like a cheaper test price (add membership + test and it equals out though) but you get some good reading/journals and free CE's. Good luck!!!

tokmom, BSN, RN · Jan 11, 2015

AMSN is definitely worth the cost of joining. They also keep track of your CEU with a tracker.

I too used the AMSN books and took a certification course paid by my facility.

It's not an easy test, but like others said, well rounded experience really helps, as does boning up on systems

Bluefamily, MSN · Jan 25, 2015

I have been considering taking this exam for the last 3 years. I have my review books, and the CDs and DVD's...I just don't know if it is worth it other than personal pride. Any thoughts from the group? I need to make up my mind and poop or get off the pot. Any thoughts? I have 13 years MS experience. I am hungry for education but my life is to full for formal education online or otherwise...would this be a good way to scratch that itch?

MnemonicMonkey · Jan 26, 2015

Depending on your exposure you will probably blow this out of the water with out much prep! I've only had three years experience, studied a lot less than I should have...
Almost every question I was asked really had more to do with experience than rote memory anyways. You will rock it!!!

If this puts it in perspective for you: I had 2.5 years on a surgical- trauma floor, a bit over-committed, and don't always check my calendar like I should. As we're going to bed one night I made a comment to my wife that I really need to start reviewing for my CMSRN. You know... since it's next week. To which she asks, "So what's that certification thing you have tomorrow afternoon?"

[Asystole]

Yup. Flipped through my med-surg book while eating lunch the next day. Questions about cancer drugs made me nervous, but nailed the surgical stuff. Many questions that tested thought process more than knowledge.

Passed. With a score just above average.

So, I wouldn't worry yourself too much over the test... 13 years experience will let you figure out that even if you're about to give some cancer drug you've never heard of, you need to assess your patient first.

26.2, BSN · Jan 29, 2015

I just ordered the ANCC book to take the RN-BC. I plan to study for maybe 2 mo on and off before I take it. The test is $395. Good luck

aqua_clementine · Mar 23, 2015

Just took the CMSRN exam today. (And passed!)

I downloaded an app on Android...Medical-Surgical Nursing Exam Prep by Upward Mobility, that had a lot of good review questions. I also took the practice test on the AMSN website last night.

Otherwise, not much studying. Although, I feel like I would've felt a little better about the exam if I had reviewed Labs associated with DKA and Renal function. (Well, just renal and diabetes---in general). I work with diabetics a TON, but the test was very heavy in that area or so it seemed to me. Labs...know which specific labs are markers for certain disorders.

But as others have said, it's straight-forward. If you work in Med-Surg, you should do well. The test is set up with scenarios that are just like your patients in the hospital, so it's easy to place yourself into the situation and ask yourself, "What would I do?"

Good luck!

Maysh · Jun 11, 2015

What is the best reviewer will you recommend???..

NGYSUN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jun 17, 2015

Just took the CMSRN exam today. (And passed!)
I downloaded an app on Android...Medical-Surgical Nursing Exam Prep by Upward Mobility, that had a lot of good review questions. I also took the practice test on the AMSN website last night.
Otherwise, not much studying. Although, I feel like I would've felt a little better about the exam if I had reviewed Labs associated with DKA and Renal function. (Well, just renal and diabetes---in general). I work with diabetics a TON, but the test was very heavy in that area or so it seemed to me. Labs...know which specific labs are markers for certain disorders.
But as others have said, it's straight-forward. If you work in Med-Surg, you should do well. The test is set up with scenarios that are just like your patients in the hospital, so it's easy to place yourself into the situation and ask yourself, "What would I do?"
Good luck!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

I have been planing and planning to take the CMSRN exam....I just haven't been able to made up my mind... what books did you use for your review?

aqua_clementine · Jun 17, 2015

Honestly, I didn't use any books.

Just used the app that I mentioned and the AMSN practice test. I really don't think I would've done any better using a book to study. A few web searches of labs, and maybe a focused review of my weaker areas could've helped, but like I mentioned, it's mostly what you already know.

I would suggest applying for the exam, then studying. Keep focused, and do your best. You can totally do it. I have a background in mostly Orthopedics with just recent experience with more Med/Surg nursing. If you're a Med/Surg nurse, you can totally pass the exam!

Good luck!

SRDAVIS · Jul 31, 2015

Well I'm waiting on my authorization to test. I teach fulltime and have for the last 6 years and only work 2 days a month. I took the PCCN without much studying. I don't really plan on doing much studying for this one. I took the practice test it showed I should look over pulmonary. So that's what I'm going to do. I'll report back.