When you got authorization to test but still feel like you don't know anything?!

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Hi everyone,

I just got my authorization to test but I still feel like I don't know ANYTHING. I am so nervous and scared and keep wanting to push back the test date but I know I should take it as soon as possible....

A lot of people told me that I won't know everything no matter how much I study but I still can't feel so SCARED about this. Also, I have submitted job applications and so afraid I might lose my applications for jobs if I don't pass on the first try (since the deadline to decide the positions are coming up soon).

I really am very anxious about this and can't help thinking about it all day and night. It's driving me crazy even.

May I please ask how you guys handled this situation?

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Don't take it if you don't feel like you will pass. What review are you using? Practice, Practice, Practice, and take it when you feel ready.

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Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.

This is exactly how I felt!

I didn't feel prepared, I was constantly nauseated, and I couldn't sleep. The only thing that helped me was to study. I at least felt like I was doing something.

I dont know what & how much you've been studying, but I can at least say that it's normal. It's a very stressful time right now!

Good luck to you!!!

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Summers3,

I understand exactly how and what you are feeling, I felt the exact same way as I went through the whole process of receiving the ATT and scheduling a test date. No matter how many times you prolong your test date, you will never feel like you know enough! It seems you are overly anxious right now and I would suggest that you first get your nervousness under control, because it will keep you from passing NCLEX (not your lack of content). I used Kaplan and their NCLEX workshop, Loretta Manning, U-World, and a host of other things that were provided by my university and did at least 150 Q/day for months...and I still did not feel that I knew anything. I think you have to be confident in what you do know and accept the fact you will not know everything.

What helped me get through that trying time was prayer, meditation (to calm my nerves), surrounding myself with family after studying and practice questions, laughing every chance I got, appreciating all of the things we tend to take for granted (sunrise, birds chirping, etc), and speaking positive affirmations several times throughout the day. Do whatever it is that makes you feel at peace.

When I went to select my test date, I initially scheduled it a month away. But after a week or so I went back in on a Sunday and changed my testing date to that following Tuesday. I passed NCLEX on my first try (about 85 Q) and took it within 45 days of graduating. I had done all I could do and was stepping out on faith. So don't be afraid of what you do not know, be confident and embrace what you have learned throughout school and if you have done all that you can do (study preparation), then go for it....after your anxiety level is down.

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Thank you to you, AggieRN!!!!!! I sincerely appreciate all your time and thoughts on this post. You really did remind me to be grateful for all the little things and everything!

And thank you to everyone who have answered!

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