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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 ...

Best Study Strategies for the NCLEX-RN

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Studying for the NCLEX is all about strategy and figuring out which ways you can absorb knowledge the most effectively. While there are a multitude of ways to ultimately go about this, it can be challenging to determine what the best study tactics are. The truth is, there is no right or wrong way to engage in your studies as long as what you are doing works well for you. While there may be some variation among individuals, there are some strategies that can be adopted and incorporated into almost all existing study plans. Let's take a deep dive into a few of the different study strategies that can help you study more efficiently for your upcoming NCLEX exam. In this blog, 1. Start reviewing while you are still a student 2. Do your research on NCLEX study tools and resources 3. Study with a friend 4. Practice questions/practice exams...

Things to Know Before Taking the NCLEX

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The NCLEX in and of itself is a complex examination that consists of several moving parts. Aside from the array of topics it comprises, there are several ins and outs of this exam that every test-goer should be well aware of before sitting for their boards. While the NCLEX may seem like an overwhelming and scary feat at first glance, taking the time to break it down beforehand can aid in easing any nerves and assist in passing with flying colors. Let's discuss some factors that you should know before sitting to take your NCLEX.   The Blog Covers: 1. The NCLEX is a computerized adaptive test (CAT) 2. Know how you best acquire information and incorporate it into your daily study regimen 3. Know how much time you have on your NCLEX 4. Know how much it costs to sit for your boards ...

Learn All About Construction Support Services

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An often overlooked or misunderstood aspect of an architect's work is to provide construction support services for a client. During this phase of a project, a design which has been developed and detailed in the construction documents phase is actualized with the construction of a realized building, and the architect's role is to assist in this process. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of the owner, architect, and general contractor is key to providing construction support services and the overall success of a project. This topic is covered on the Construction and Evaluation division of the ARE. In this blog: 1. Determining the Architect's Role 2. AIA Contract Document B101 3. Conducting Site Visits 4. Reviewing Submittals and Answering Requests for Information (FRI) ...

My NCLEX Exam Day Experience

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I remember my NCLEX exam day as if it were yesterday: the nerves, the anticipation, the fear of the unknown, the sheer hope that I would pass on the first attempt. So many emotions flood your entire being the day that you sit for the NCLEX, and it was no different for me. While it can be an overwhelming experience, keep in mind that in less than 24 hours it'll be done and over with. However, if you're anything like myself and tend to overthink, it can be easier said than done to remain calm on that highly anticipated day. So, this is for you-the overthinkers, the overachievers, the study machines. I hear you because I was you, and I'm here to tell you that you can do this. Hopefully to slightly ease your nerves, let me walk you through what I experienced and how I coped with big emotions the day of my own NCLEX. In this blog, 1. Be Prepared 2. The Day before Exam Day ...

Self-Care: The New Nurse's Guide to Taking Care of Your Body

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Nurses are caregivers. We are great at taking care of other people's bodies! We do a terrific job of promoting health...as long as it is the health of someone else! But we often struggle at putting the care of our own body as a priority. In your 20s, it is easy to underestimate the effect a 12 hour, physically and emotionally demanding shift can have on your body. But your 40-year-old self will thank you for paying attention to some of these things early in your career. The blog covers, 1. Know Your Own I's and O's 2. Get Sweaty 3. Go to Bed 4. Spend the Money 5. Be a Good Patient Try paying attention to these five areas to take better care of your body as a new nurse and throughout your nursing career. 1. Know Your Own I's and O's!  - We all know that closely watching our patient's I's and O's (intake and output) is vital to their care. But as a nurse, it is...