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Showing posts with the label NCLEX

4 Things to Know While Preparing for the NCLEX

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Preparing for the NCLEX can be an incredibly complicated and overwhelming process, especially when the internet is inundated with information and you aren't quite sure where to begin. It can be difficult to know where to start, how exactly to study, or even when to start reviewing the material. Despite the widespread number of resources available, there are some definite things to keep in mind during your preparation that will hopefully aid in providing some clarity throughout the process. We will discuss four different things to know while gearing up for the NCLEX: In this Blog, 4 Things to Know While Preparing for the NCLEX: 1. Make sure your study schedule is sustainable and realistic 2. It is never too early to start studying 3. Identify your strengths and weaknesses early on and tailor your regimen around them 4. You will not know everything and that is okay 1. Make sure your study schedule is ...

The Ultimate NCLEX Checklist for Nursing Students

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As if there's not enough on your plate as a nursing student, beginning to prepare for your NCLEX is, unfortunately, another important task on the ever-growing to-do list. So, whether you've just completed your first day as a nursing school student or are in your final semester, this guide will hopefully bring you some clarity and guidance as to where to begin and what steps to take as you gear up to sit for your board exam. Let's take a look at some key actions: In this blog: 1. Get Organized 2. Invest in a review book or course 3. Start studying as early as possible 4. As soon as you are able, register for your NCLEX 5. Practice questions 6. Study with others 7. Hone in on the ways you learn best 8. Don't wait until the last minute to start preparing 9. Utilize old exams and lecture notes 10. Familiarize yourse...

NCLEX Question Strategies: Communication Questions

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I don't know about you, but I consider myself to be a pretty good communicator! But the fact is, sometimes I say the wrong thing, am not focused on the person talking to me, or just selfishly turn the whole conversation back to myself. Sometimes I'm not a good communicator; I'm a good TALKER! Therapeutic communication involves LISTENING to and OBSERVING and is just as important as learning how to SPEAK to someone. So, when I step into the role of the nurse, my communication strategies need to shift. On the NCLEX exam, you will come across questions that deal with communication strategies and building a trusting relationship with the client. Therapeutic communication falls under the Psychosocial Integrity category, but these questions are not just focused on the mental health setting or the client with a mental health disorder. Therapeutic communication strategies should be considered in all questions related to nursing and patient interaction. And although good communicatio...

How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX? Tips to Help You Pass

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A major concern regarding the NCLEX exam is how many times the test can be taken. While the ultimate goal is to avoid having to sit for your boards more than one time, it is still best to prepare for both outcomes and know the facts in case you find yourself having to retake it. Let's take a deeper dive into the parameters surrounding the frequency in which you can sit for your boards and discuss some tips to bypass having to do so! While it is not the end of the world if you fail your exam, it is important to explore the specific board of nursing rules in the state where you reside, as there may be some variability. According to the NCSBN website, you can take the exam eight times in one year. In general, however, you must wait 45 days after a failed attempt. Some states may have different rules and regulations, so be sure to investigate the board of nursing website where you live. For example, Florida only allows an individual to fail the exam three times, and if fail...

Initial Struggles as a New Nurse and How to Overcome Them

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You did it! You overcame nursing school, passed your NCLEX with flying colors, and have finally gained your sought-after credentials. You rejoice in hearing your name followed by "RN" and are looking forward to initiating your upcoming career. Shortly after, you swiftly become overtaken with emotions that you had yet to anticipate. While this is hands down an incredibly exciting time in your life, it is imperative to be aware ahead of time of the struggles that can come with the first year as a registered nurse. It may not be rainbows and butterflies in the very beginning as you work through the growing pains of starting a brand new job, but take heart knowing that this too shall pass and you will come out better and more equipped than before! Here are some of the initial struggles you may face as a brand-new nurse fresh out of the gate and what you can do to overcome them for good. In this Blog, Initial Stru...

NCLEX Tips To Boost Exam Performance

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After graduating from nursing school, you are officially one step closer to becoming a registered nurse! This is an exciting chapter, but now is not the time to ease up on the gas-you want to keep your focus sharp as you prepare to sit for your upcoming nursing boards. While the ultimate goal is to pass the NCLEX, there are some tips and tricks that can help you boost your performance and increase the likelihood of receiving your sought-after credentials. Let's dive into some of the varying tactics that you can implement into your schedule to aid in launching you from nursing graduate to registered nurse! In this Blog, 1. Review Material Early and Often 2. Get Your Nerves in Check 3. Keep the Patient in Mind 4. Envision Yourself in the Scenario 5. Don't Try to Reinvent the Wheel 6. Practice Makes Perfect! 1. Review Material Early and Often The first tip goes witho...

US NCLEX Application Process & Exam Requirements for Foreign-Educated Nurses

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Are you a nurse who was educated outside of the US but would like to work in the US as a registered nurse? Great! Nursing is a wonderful career and there are many job opportunities in all states and all specialties. Becoming licensed in the US after obtaining a license in a different country is referred to as "licensure by endorsement." Because it can take time to get a nursing license in the US, and there are many steps. It is recommended to start this process 6 months in advance of when you are hoping to begin working in the US. First, each of the 50 states has its own nursing regulating body (NRB), also known as a state board of nursing. All states require you to pass the same licensure exam, known as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), but each state has its own requirements to be able to test. Some states require a social security number, driver's license from that state, or other proof of residency. Many states require fingerprints and a background c...

These Tips Will Help You Pass the NCLEX (Even If It's Last-Minute)

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As you get down to the wire, you may be feeling as if there is not enough time to complete all of the remaining tasks on your NCLEX review checklist. This is a normal sensation felt by most, especially as you look back and wonder where the days and hours disappeared to. While it may feel as if there is nothing left for you to be able to boost your likelihood of overcoming your boards, I'm here to tell you that there are some last-minute tips that can aid in getting you a passing score, even if it is last minute. Let's take a look at what you still have time to do: This blog covers: 1. Get a good night of sleep 2. Eat a hearty breakfast or meal beforehand 3. Review a "cram" sheet to look over basics 4. Get in a good headspace before your exam 5. Exercise 6. Make sure you are dressed appropriately ...