Working and Studying for NCLEX

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Has anyone started working immediately after graduating? How hard is it to study for the nclex while you are trying to orientate to a new position? I've been offered a position that will have me orientating 2 weeks after I graduate, which means I will have to study for the nclex during my orientation. I realize that the best case scenario is to pass your boards then look for a job, but when it is a unit that you really, really want.....I just want to see how feasible it has been for others who have been in similar positions. Thanks in advance.

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Personally, I needed a break between graduation and starting work as an RN. I also wanted the time to study for NCLEX. Maybe 2 weeks will be enough for you.

I graduated in December and do not start my OR internship until March, so I was fortunate to not have to make that decision. I did take time off as a tech in the ED prior to NCLEX, and am now working again until I start in the OR. Have you asked and been told you have no choice but to start right away? I might also ask if I could start in the same unit as a tech until after NCLEX, just so I could get acclimated to the area without the stress of being in a graduate nurse position.

Having said all that, I do think it is possible. It depends entirely on how comfortable you are with taking NCLEX. Did you do well in school and on your HESI exams? Are you pretty good with delegation and prioritization questions? How much did you study throughout the program for NCLEX, i.e. doing Saunders questions, stuff like that?

Good luck and best wishes on your NCLEX!

Janie BSN-RN :nurse:

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Specializes in Gerontology.

well I have not started working but my best friend has and she says it is horrible to learn a new position and study for NCLEX but she is doing it so it must be feasible but I wanted to dedicate all my time to studying. Also she says the one thing she hates is learning the stuff she has to learn to do her new job and studying for NCLEX. Like she has to take an EKG class and a Critical care class and she said that the nurse manager said she has to pass all of the test she has to take.

So it's your decision but I would think carefully about it, although it can be done.

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Personally, I needed a break between graduation and starting work as an RN. I also wanted the time to study for NCLEX. Maybe 2 weeks will be enough for you.

I graduated in December and do not start my OR internship until March, so I was fortunate to not have to make that decision. I did take time off as a tech in the ED prior to NCLEX, and am now working again until I start in the OR. Have you asked and been told you have no choice but to start right away? I might also ask if I could start in the same unit as a tech until after NCLEX, just so I could get acclimated to the area without the stress of being in a graduate nurse position.

Having said all that, I do think it is possible. It depends entirely on how comfortable you are with taking NCLEX. Did you do well in school and on your HESI exams? Are you pretty good with delegation and prioritization questions? How much did you study throughout the program for NCLEX, i.e. doing Saunders questions, stuff like that?

Good luck and best wishes on your NCLEX!

Janie BSN-RN :nurse:

I actually have done very well in school, straight A's so far. I use Saunder's Comprehensive review book for every test and answer all the questions in the book and CD pertaining to the subjects before I take my exams. But I have heard from many people that doing well in school and passing the nclex do not go hand in hand.

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Hello everyone!

I, personally, started my new job after two weeks 'off' from graduation. I am orienting as a new oncology nurse, work a second job at a bank, have a young son *and* manage to study for the nclex! :roll

Its hard, im tired... but it *can* be done. Im a believer that with a good attitude, ambition, and focus you can do the impossible!

The most important thing is to know *your* limits and be true to yourself and honest and in the end, you will make the best decisions for yourself and your career.

Good luck!:nurse:

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