Yikes!

[CAPA2008]

I just started an Accelerated BSN Program. I have taken two tests: on one I received a B, and the other an F.

I am slightly worried about my future success in nursing. I really felt that I knew the material, but the questions that were asked totally threw me for a loop. Can anyone relate? Is this normal? Will I get better at answer these types of questions? Any advice is helpful :)

[RN1980]

welcome to nursing school...don't sell yourself short. try reviewing with some of your classmates (the ones that scored well on the exams) and see what they are doing. just like alot of programs it may take an exam or two to get the feel of the instructors and test taking skills.

[RN007]

I suggest getting as many NCLEX study guides as you have time for. I used them all though NS. It helped me to not only review content but to get used to the style of questioning as well. Hang in there, and good luck! P.S. The Saunders guide is excellent if you don't already have it. I also love the "Made Easy" series.

[pagandeva2000, LPN]

Your experience is the norm for nursing students that are in the beginning stages. Unlike most other classes, questions and answers are not black and white. You have to read into the questions and critically think through them. There is a book on successful test taking for nursing students (sorry I don't remember the title) that I used that helped tremendously. And, to be truthful, your experiences once you become a nurse won't be such, either. Patients describe things based on their culture, educational background and many other things, so, you have to really think hard while they are describing things to you, and this is why they test the way that they do. As RN007 mentioned, I would get a Comprehensive Study Guide and use the CDs and questions there, to get a feel of what type of questions would be asked on NCLEX and the classroom.

[Quidam]

If you don't mind my asking, what class was this? I just finished my first semester of nursing school, ADN program and I got off to a rough start. I passed the first test by 1 point...but it got better. Not easier...but I adjusted to the testing I guess. It's just the business of learning to apply the knowledge you are aquiring. The best advice I can give you is to be sure to read the rationale for the questions you miss to give you insight as to why that is the best right answer and also to be sure to learn from every question you miss. So much learning takes place in our mistakes. At least we have the luxury of of doing that now in school. Relax and know that with hard work and persistance things will get better.

[pagandeva2000, LPN]

True...many times, there may be more than one 'right' answer, but what they are looking for is the BEST answer based on the circumstances illustrated in the question.

[zilla704]

For me, the key to being successful was learning how to dissect those damn questions! You have to learn to mark out distractors and extraneous information. Look for hints like "what should the nurse do FIRST" or tricky ones like "which is the "LEAST". Look for repeats. If one of the answers includes the same wording as the question, that one is probably the winner. Lastly, stick with Maslow. What's the most important. For example a patent airway is more important than skin care or diet teaching.

I completely tear up my questions. I never turn in a test without marks. I'm sure they would look crazy to some, but I mark through everything I don't need. If you have time, cover the answers and think or write down what you think the answer may be. It's easier to clear your thoughts that way. Changing answers is usually bad Take your time, read the question two or even three times if you need to. Make sure you understand what they are asking BEFORE you go to the answers.

Good luck! :)

Forgot to add, I'd be leary of ever picking an "all" or "never" answer