Taking NCLEX at over 50

Malikah · May 1, 2014

Hello dbrenda1510, I can truly relate to what you are going through. I am about to take the nclex-rn for the third time. I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year around this time and had to put it on hold. But I have went through this not to fail now. I know you can accomplish your goal that you are seeking, just continue to pray and study. I have never used Hurst but I have heard good things, but that is also the same with Kaplan as well. I have been using Saunders, PDA LaCharity, and 3500 questions. I would like to tell you I will be praying for you future RN.

**NICU Guy, BSN, RN** · May 1, 2014

What does age have to do with the ability to pass NCLEX? I am 47 and will be 48 when I take NCLEX. I do not feel that I am at a disadvantage as compared to others in my cohort that are 20 yrs younger than me. Ability to pass NCLEX is solely based on the preparation of the graduate both during school and post-graduation NCLEX prep.

Malikah · May 1, 2014

I apologize I read the post wrong didn't mean any harm. Sorry once again for the confusion.

DJAYS · May 1, 2014

Yes I just turn 50 years old a few weeks ago. I am going after the LPN nclex...which I failed..but that is okay I will not give up until I am a nurse. For me I only wanted to be a LPN. The test was a little tricky for me because I had everybody telling how to study for this test. I can't afford the hurst, Kaplan review test. So if you have the money and the time go for it. I wish you the best of luck for sure. Everyone says the Kaplan is great...so keep me posted . Being over 50 years old is a blessing!!!

dbrenda1510 · May 1, 2014

Hi Don1984. Thank you for responding to my post. I didn't mean to imply people over 50 were at a disadvantage in nursing school or taking the NCLEX. What I meant was there just aren't that many of us. I was hoping to connect with others who can relate to my generation of "new" nurses and the ups and downs we faced and have to yet overcome. I have to admit it does take me a bit longer to learn than it did when I was in my 20's but that's natural. I made it through nursing school and I will make it through the NCLEX exam too. I wish you much success in your nursing career.

dbrenda1510 · May 1, 2014

Thank you DJAYS. Yes, you will make a great LPN. The NCLEX RN was tricky as well. There were many select all that apply questions and I do poorly on those. (I hate them!) I tried studying on my own for and that didn't work so I am going to try Hurst, but I too am having difficulty digesting the cost of the program. I think the price is way to much, but then if it does what it guarantees (you pass the NCLEX or your money back) it will be worth it. I wish you all the best and I know you will make it. Giving up at this stage is not an option! You will be in my prayers and please let me know how you do on the test. I will do the same when I retake it. God bless.

dbrenda1510 · May 1, 2014

Malikah, I graduated last August and during finals I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism then skin cancer. It was two wammies in a row. I had surgery and spent time recuperating from September until recently. That's why I didn't take the NCLEX until recently. I am very sorry to hear you were diagnosed with breast cancer. I will continue to pray and study and will include you in my prayers. Thank you for your post, it was very encouraging. We have both come to far in our quest to be RN's to let go of the dream now. We will do this...we will be RN's in the near future.