You succeeded! You are one step closer to becoming a registered nurse now that you have completed your nursing education. Now, you merely need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to finish the process of becoming a registered nurse.
Even though you worked hard in nursing school and are an expert in your field, there are still things you can do to improve your chances of passing the NCLEX the first time. In this blog, we will give you the best advice on preparation for the NCLEX exam and passing it on the first attempt itself!
Comprehend the NCLEX format thoroughly
A CAT format, or computerised adaptive testing, is used for the NCLEX, indicating that no two exams are the same. Based on how well you answered the previous questions, the computer algorithm creates each new question throughout the exam. The test bank is comprehensive and contains a range of question types and content topics.
Grading system of NCLEX
A minimum of 75 and a maximum of 265 questions will be generated for the test. When the tester has properly answered enough questions to remain above the pass line with a 95% confidence interval, the candidate is considered to have passed the test. If the candidate does not rise over the pass line with a 95% confidence level, they will fail the test.
Stay calm and discover ways to manage your stress during the test
Try to stay calm and use techniques to control your stress. Test anxiety is a real issue, but you made it through nursing school, so just keep practising in the manner that has previously helped you. Even if you don’t generally have test anxiety, there’s a chance that the pressure of such a significant test will make you uneasy.
Know what study style works well for you while you prepare for NCLEX
Each student has a unique learning style, and by this time, you perhaps know what it is. Make sure you customise your study methods to suit your needs!
- Draw out rough illustrations of the heart chambers, colour-coded drug classes, etc., if you learn concepts best through images.
- There are many YouTube lectures and podcasts available if you learn best by auditory learning.
- Make a study group to go over subjects in if you find that you learn best through group study.
Make a concrete study plan
Do a dedicated preparation that the test really deserves. Make a concrete study plan and abide by it. Set a target prior to each study session, for example, plan to do a fixed number of practice questions or learn about particular content topics. If you do not have a study plan in place, it is only a waste of time and it would not help you in passing the NCLEX. It is not about the number of hours you put in; it’s about how wisely you use them.
Sharpen your Test-Taking Techniques
Being knowledgeable about the format of the test is equally important as knowing the right answers in order to pass the test. Use test-taking techniques to weed out incorrect responses, steer clear of “extremes” like ALL or NONE, and always prioritise patient safety.
You will eventually identify certain patterns in the answers:
- Never call the doctor immediately; instead, always evaluate the patient first.
- Utilize the Airway-Breathing-Circulation method, etc.
- Even if you are unfamiliar with the concepts of the topic, use logical reasoning.
- If all else fails, trust that developing instinct we like to refer to as “nurse intuition.”
- The dreaded select-all-that-apply questions will undoubtedly appear. Apply the same methodical strategy to weed out inaccurate answer options based on the wording of answers and knowledge.
Move Past the practice questions
Practice exams are definitely the most excellent way to prepare, though this is only half the process.
It is equally important to:
- Look up any questions that you responded to wrongly. Practice question banks outline the particular content topic it falls under and provide explanations as to why each answer choice is correct or incorrect.
- Make a list of points that you want to review so that you can concentrate on your weaknesses during your subsequent study session.
- Develop your skills through practising. It is extremely helpful to take at least one or two complete online mock NCLEX tests to get accustomed to the practice of computer testing. Before the exam, go over as much of the question bank as you can to gain maximum advantage.
Get ready for the big day – the day of exam!
- Have a good sleep ahead of the exam.
- Eat well and carry snacks along with you to keep in your locker if you want to take a break during the exam.
- Reach early at the testing centre with all the necessary documents for testing.
- Make plans for your travel the night before.
- Setup a dependable alarm.
Conclusion
We hope the above-mentioned tips will help you greatly to ace the NCLEX exam. Most importantly, you should believe in yourself. You deserve to pass NCLEX as you have already demonstrated your potential as a nurse by passing out of nursing school. This is the last stepping stone to your success on your journey to be a Registered Nurse – so congratulations! Find the right institute to prepare and qualify for NCLEX exam. The experts at MWT Global Academy will guide you in every possible way to ace the NCLEX exam.