By Host Healthcare

May 2, 2023

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6 Tips For How to Study For NCLEX Exam

Host Healthcare provided this article.

After years of hard work, time-consuming classes, and difficult clinical practice, you’ve finally reached the last step to becoming a full-fledged, practicing nurse: the NCLEX. But do you know how to pass the NCLEX?

The National Council Licensure Examination, also known as the NCLEX, is a rigorous and sometimes overwhelming certification process that every nursing student is required to take. The NCLEX is a computerized exam that tests your ability to provide basic medical care for entry-level nursing jobs. Once you pass the NCLEX, you receive a license that classifies you as a registered nurse (or practical nurse). Once you’ve passed your licensing exam, you can begin the journey of advancing your nursing career

The idea of getting your career up and running is exciting, but it can’t be done without passing the NCLEX first. If you have the desire to know more about this critical exam and ensure you pass without any issues, read on for six tips and tricks on how to study for NCLEX.

nclex exam

#1 Understand What the NCLEX Looks Like

The NCLEX exam is like no other. One of the most significant factors setting it apart from other tests is the way it utilizes a form of modern test-taking through computerized adaptive technology (CAT). This means that each nursing student’s exam is going to look a little different, with its own question algorithm. As you take the test, this algorithm will continue adjusting itself and asking new questions based on your previous answers. 

Passing the exam requires 95% correct answers within the allotted time.

Many of the specifics of your exam are going to depend on one important factor: which type of NCLEX you’re taking.

What is the NCLEX-RN vs. the NCLEX-PN?

Registered nurses and practical nurses must take their own form of the NCLEX to become certified in the nursing field. While there are many similarities between RNs and PNs, there are also some key factors that set these positions (and their NCLEX exams) apart:

  • Registered nurse – In order to become a registered nurse, you will need to fulfill an educational requirement prior to taking your exam at a testing center. This is done by taking part in a nursing program. Earning either an associate’s degree in nursing (typically a two-year program) or a bachelor’s of science in nursing (a four-year program) will allow you to earn your RN certification upon completing the NCLEX-RN.
  • Practical Nurse – A college degree is not a requirement for becoming a practical nurse, making it one of the most noticeable differences when comparing the two certifications. Instead, the education needed to earn a PN title consists of a high school diploma and a practical nursing course. A practical nursing course will typically take a year or so to complete, and upon graduation from the nursing program, you will need to pass the NCLEX-PN. 

Now that you’re familiar with the unique qualifications required by these two job titles, it’s time to take a look at the differences between their respective exams:

  • NCLEX-RN – The NCLEX-RN exam consists of anywhere between 75 and 265 questions. These NCLEX questions encompass a variety of information needed to perform the duties of a registered nurse. Test takers are allotted six hours to complete the exam.
  • NCLEX-PN – Unlike its RN counterpart, the NCLEX-PN exam will have a smaller range of questions, between 85 and 205. As a result of having fewer questions, test takers are allowed a maximum of five hours to complete the exam. The questions on the NCLEX-PN will have greater relevance to the work of a PN, though both exams will focus on basic medical knowledge and nursing tasks.

Whether you will be taking the registered nurse or the practical nurse exam, the following NCLEX test-taking strategies will help you study in more efficient and effective ways. 

nclex exam

#2 Take Practice Tests

It is suggested to create an NCLEX test plan in order to properly prepare for this exam, which is known for its challenges. Creating a study schedule for completing a practice exam is an easy and accessible way to familiarize yourself with the NCLEX format before your test day. Taking practice tests will also help you study the material and prepare for the pressure and time limit when your actual exam date arrives.

You can access a variety of NCLEX practice tests online, using websites such as:

  • NCSBN.org
  • Nurse Plus
  • Kaptest
  • NCLEX RN Mastery

When preparing for the exam, you may receive a practice test that is a shorter version of the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN, while others will more accurately reflect the length of the real test. It may be helpful to do a combination of both formats to get the most out of your studying time. It’s important for you to familiarize yourself with the wide variety of practice questions being asked while also preparing for the time constraints and overall length of the real exam.

#3 Listen to Nurses Who Have Passed

Getting advice from real nurses who have passed the NCLEX is a great way to study and set your expectations for the test. Fortunately, recently developed modern technology has made it easier than ever to hear real-life experiences from other nurses and connect with communities that understand your questions and concerns. 

Some ways you can learn about the NCLEX from other nurses include:

Just because you have to take the test on your own doesn’t mean you have to prepare for it alone. Finding information from registered nurses can be done easily online, and it’s a great way to mold your studying habits based on real-world experiences.

#4 Form a Study Group

nclex exam

Speaking of studying with others, another tip for how to study for the NCLEX is by forming a study group with your peers. 

The NCLEX is an extensive exam that covers a vast array of information. In nursing school, you’re likely to meet many different people who have unique strengths and weaknesses in the medical field. Studying with your peers will bring together different types of nurses with their own specialties, thus strengthening the knowledge of everyone involved. 

The ability to support and care for your peers is a vital skill needed in the nursing field. Being able to do this for your peers via a study group is not only going to increase everyone’s chances of passing, but it’s also great practice for your future in the medical field.

#5 Study Questions You Get Wrong

It’s important when studying and taking practice tests that you don’t ignore questions you’re getting wrong. While it may be tempting to continue studying questions you already got right as a means of boosting your confidence, it’s vital that you understand the reasons behind any incorrect answers.

When you’re taking a practice test, make sure to complete it entirely to get the answer key at the end. Take a look at any questions you answered incorrectly. You need to make a plan to study those topics more carefully. Committing these answers to memory will help you on your exam day and ensure the questions you stumbled on while studying don’t hurt your final score on the real test. 

#6 Prep for Your Exam Date

Studying the material is important but shouldn’t be the only thing on your pre-exam checklist. Showing up prepared on your test date is vital to making sure you can take the test and perform successfully with high marks. 

The night before your exam, make a checklist of everything you need to bring the following day. While this list may differ slightly for everyone, some important things to remember are:

  • Your authorization to test (ATT)
  • A form of signed identification
  • Lunch or a snack for your break

Additionally, you’ll want to remember what not to bring to your testing site. These items include:

  • An expired form of identification
  • Identification that does not match your current appearance or name
  • Anything you don’t feel comfortable leaving in a locker

Getting a good night’s sleep is an essential part of your test preparation. It is also recommended that you arrive 30 minutes before your exam time, so make sure you set an alarm, wake up early, and leave enough time for your commute.

What the Future Holds: Becoming a Travel Nurse with Host Healthcare

At Host Healthcare, we are committed to helping you achieve success in your nursing career. Our NCLEX tips and tricks may have provided you with valuable insights to pass your exam and begin your journey as a registered or practical nurse, but we don’t stop there. We believe that life is about adventure and experiencing new things. That’s why we offer travel nursing opportunities that allow you to explore new places while pursuing your passion for nursing.

As a travel nurse with Host Healthcare, you can combine your love for travel with your passion for helping others. We provide you with the support and guidance you need to make your experience unforgettable. From matching you with a recruiter to finding the perfect assignment, we are with you every step of the way.

Whether you’re a recent nursing graduate or an experienced nurse looking for a change, Host Healthcare is here to help you achieve your goals. Our mission is to bring skilled medical professionals like you to new areas, ensuring that patients in every corner of the country receive quality care. We are excited to partner with you on this journey and can’t wait to see where your nursing career takes you.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Taylor Haskings

March 10, 2022

5711 Views

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5 Tips for Choosing Your College Path in Nursing

Choosing the right college path can be overwhelming. You may feel unsure about what to do once you finish high school and even more confused when it comes time to enroll in a nursing program. The great thing is that there are plenty of options available for students looking to pursue their career goals! Here are some tips on how you can choose your college path in nursing:

Find a School that Fits You

Not all nursing schools are created equal. Make sure to research different programs and find one that fits your learning style. If you prefer smaller classes, then look for a school with a lower student-to-teacher ratio. Or, if you want more hands-on experience, consider FNP programs that offer clinical rotations. No matter what, make sure to ask plenty of questions and tour the school before making your final decision. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a program that isn’t right for you.

In addition to researching the school, you should also consider your career goals. If you want to work in a certain location or specialize in a specific area of nursing, then look for an accredited program that aligns with your interests. Even if you are a parent looking for ways to support your teen who wants to become a nurse, it’s important to consider career goals, program length, financial strain, and general interest in the field before embarking on a healthcare degree path.

No matter where you choose to attend classes or how long it takes, always remember why you signed up for nursing school in the first place. You’re embarking on a challenging and rewarding journey, so enjoy every step along the way.

Find an Affordable School

Nursing school comes with a hefty price tag. However, you can reduce your college costs by attending community college for the first two years of your degree. Even though transferring to another university will cost more money, it’s often much cheaper than starting at a private or out-of-state institution. Some universities also offer scholarships and grants specifically for nursing students.

Another way to reduce the cost of school is by working part-time while you’re in classes. This can be a challenge, but it’s doable if you’re determined and motivated. Just make sure that your workload doesn’t become too overwhelming. There’s no need to add any unnecessary stress to an already stressful time in your life. Remember that the cost of nursing school doesn’t have to break the bank or prevent you from achieving your career goals. You need to be smart about where and how you choose to spend your money.

In addition to cutting down on the overall cost of school, you should also try to save money wherever possible, for example, by living at home instead of in an off-campus housing facility, using coupons or shopping for deals online, and eating healthier meals cooked in bulk (then frozen). With a little bit of creativity and self-discipline, you can easily slash your expenses without sacrificing your education or social life.

Consider Your Options

There are several different nursing programs to choose from, and each has its unique benefits and drawbacks. For example, if you’re interested in working with children, a pediatric nursing program may be the right choice. Alternatively, if you want to specialize in a certain area of medicine, plenty of nursing programs can help you achieve your goals.

No matter what type of degree or specialization you choose, make sure to do plenty of research before enrolling in a program. Ask questions and tour the campus so that you feel confident about the path ahead. It’s important to consider all available options and not just settle for something because it seems like the easy choice. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect program that meets your needs and sets you up for success in the nursing field.

In addition to choosing the right type of program, you should also think about what level of education you want to pursue. There are associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees available in nursing, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, an associate’s degree may take less time to complete than a bachelor’s degree, but it won’t allow you to specialize in a particular area of nursing. A bachelor’s degree is a good choice if you want to become a registered nurse, while a master’s degree can allow you to pursue more specialized careers such as nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.

Network With Other Students

If you’re serious about becoming a nurse, it’s important to surround yourself with like-minded people. Join your school’s nursing club or student organization so that you have the opportunity to meet other students who share your interests and goals. These groups are also great ways for students in different programs to support one another throughout their studies.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions and get involved with other nursing students early in your college career. If you’re struggling, then there’s no shame in asking for help or meeting with an advisor so that you can map out a plan of action moving forward. It takes time to adjust to the fast-paced life of a nursing student, but with the help of your peers, you’ll be able to stay on track and reach your goals.

In addition to meeting new people, you should also make a point of staying connected with your friends and family. Don’t neglect the important relationships in your life because you’re busy studying for midterms or writing a research paper. Make sure to carve out some time each day to check in with loved ones so that they know how much you care.

Get Involved in Your Community

If you want to become a nurse, it’s important to learn about local health care needs and how your skills can make a difference. Volunteer at an after-school program, women’s shelter, or senior center; join the medical mission trip of your church, or take up teaching CPR.

By getting involved in your community, you can gain valuable real-world experience while making a difference for those who need it. Volunteering is an excellent way to test out the nursing field and see if this career path is right for you before committing yourself to years of school. Not only that, but many volunteer opportunities can help you build up your resume and gain valuable experience.

By following these five tips for choosing your college path, you’ll be able to find the nursing program that’s right for you! If this is really what you want to do with your life, then make sure to put in the work now so that it pays off later.

We hope you found this article on choosing your college path helpful. Are you a seasoned travel nurse who has tips to share with those choosing their college path now? Are there things you wish you would have done or classes you would have taken during your college days? Comment them below.

Are you a travel nurse looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you have an assignment lined up but need housing? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Nancy Howard

September 9, 2021

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Student Guide To Travel Nursing: Succeed Today!

Travel nursing becomes especially relevant because of the current pandemic situation. That’s why more and more students are considering such a career option as a future. Now, this job can offer not only a tempting salary but also the opportunity to see new cities and even countries, and of course, taking care of people in need.

What does a student need to know to become a travel nurse? What steps to take and how to get started? Below you will find a guide to travel nursing and advice that will come in handy to get a position as a travel nurse.

Student Guide to Travel Nursing

Before finding out how a student can become a travel nurse, it is worth briefly highlighting the essence of such specialists. Travel nurses are nurses who can provide additional support to patients, fill the shortage of personnel in other cities/countries and provide timely and high-quality services. Below you will find a short guide on how to become a travel nurse.

Get Started With BSN Degree

It will take 4 years to complete this degree. However, note that some schools have programs such as RN-to-BSN for those nurses who already have an ADN.

Prepare and Pass NCLEX Exam

You will also need an RN license. So, you must first pass the corresponding exam. This test covers such topics as nursing practice, treatment conditions, healthcare system, legal and ethical issues, communication with patients, and even education.

Obtain an RN License

As already mentioned, you need to start obtaining a license. Please note that obtaining a license in one state may not be relevant for all states. Therefore, be sure to check at this point as you may need to apply for a license in the other states too.

Get Experience

If you are interested in the best vacancies and offers, then some experience will be your competitive advantage as a student. Most travel nursing agencies require a minimum of one year of nursing experience. Therefore, it is worth considering getting a good experience before you become a travel nurse.

Prepare a Quality CV

Of course, you will need to create a high-quality CV with up-to-date data. If you don’t know how to write a proper CV, see examples or use the services of professional writers. For example, you can get in touch with the Best Writers Online on the Writing Judge custom writing services reviews platform.

Keep in mind that the first impression your future employer gets is driven by your CB only. Make sure to fill it with relevant education, additional courses, and certifications, and dwell on your practical experience in detail, highlighting the tasks you faced and challenges you solved.

Partner with a Travel Nursing Agency

The last step is choosing the right agency to help you with your employment. Some schools help their graduates in this matter. Therefore, check out those agencies that are recruiting in your city or state. Get started with online research, send them your CV and wait for the response a little. You can also call the recruiters directly and offer to consider your candidacy  – it will speed up the process significantly.

Essential Tips for Students Who Want to Be Travel Nurse

Now you know where to get started to become such a specialist. But since this type of activity is slightly different from the usual nursing practice, it is worth discussing some additional points that every student who wants to become a travel nurse should know about.

  • Get ready for total life changes. If you are planning to become a travel nurse, then you should understand that you will have to leave your loved ones, family, or children for a certain time. It is important to understand that in the event of any emergency, you may not always be able to get home without violating your work contract.
  • You must have savings. Before you become a travel nurse, you need to have good savings. Sometimes you can face a sudden termination of the work contract, the need for additional expenses, and so on. Having a savings account would be a good insurance policy in such a profession.
  • Buy quality clothing and shoes. Quality footwear is a must-have for all nurses, not just for traveling caregivers. But when we talk about travel nurses, it is vital to get not only high-quality shoes but also clothes too.
  • Set the right expectations. Students often assume that becoming a travel nurse is an opportunity to see the world. But in practice, it is hard work in a new environment, especially if you are going abroad. Leave romantic expectations behind and look at this profession with a sober look. Indeed, such specialization as travel nurses has many advantages, but this does not alleviate the often difficult working conditions.
  • You shouldn’t burn bridges with your previous job at home. When you enter the world of travel nursing, it will be wise to have a place to return. Discuss with your employer the possibility of a job recovery after the end of the contract.

The Bottom Line

Use this guide to travel nursing to start your travel nursing career. Do not forget that this is a rather difficult position, and you need to be mentally prepared for this to enjoy all the benefits of this profession. And always keep your main task in mind – you should deliver quality healthcare and sincerely love what you do to succeed as a travel nurse.

We hope this guide to travel nursing helps you along your way to a travel nursing career. Are you ready to start your travel nursing career but need an assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have the assignment but need housing? Click here to view our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 26, 2020

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How to Feel Prepared for the NCLEX

Have you recently graduated from a nursing degree program and are now studying for the NCLEX-RN? Congratulations! You’re one step closer to becoming a registered nurse! 

Nurses report high job satisfaction and enjoy the variety of the many available specializations. Some of these include pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, and mental health nursing; some nurses may also look into public health, clinical research, or hospital administration.  

The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us of the crucial role of nurses in healthcare. When isolated patients cannot receive visits from their families, nurses are there to comfort them. Perhaps this is exactly why you are going into nursing right now – to make a difference!  

Passing the NCLEX-RN is a significant milestone in the nursing profession. The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is the standardized test all prospective nurses must pass to demonstrate readiness as an entry-level nurse.  Studying for the exam may feel daunting at first, but there are plenty of ways to take charge of your studying and prepare yourself!

What Is the NCLEX, Anyway?

It is crucial to know what to expect from the NCLEX.  Most of the exam comprises multiple-choice and drag-and-drop questions, along with some fill-in-the-blank responses. The NCLEX is a standardized exam that is offered throughout the year. 

The exam utilizes Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), so all prospective registered nurses take the test on a computer. Each subsequent question is based on your prior answers. While the test bank is comprehensive, the order of the questions you receive will differ from your nursing peers. You will answer somewhere between 75 and 265 questions, depending on how you perform as the test progresses. 

You will pass the test when the computer is “95 percent certain” you are above the standard. This is also called the “confidence interval rule.” If you do not meet the confidence interval rule, or if you run out of time, you will fail the NCLEX and have to wait 45 days before attempting it again. 

There is no way to know how you are doing until you see the end results. Keep in mind that receiving a string of easy questions doesn’t necessarily mean you’re underperforming; conversely, receiving difficult questions doesn’t indicate that you’re breezing through. 

Be prepared to sit for up to 265 questions. The test might conclude at a minimum of 75 questions, or it might not. The one thing you can control is all the preparation leading up to the exam.   

Establish Effective Study Habits 

If you want to be fully prepared for the NCLEX, test preparation must become your daily priority. 

You’ve probably successfully completed nursing school, so you already know about the importance of good study habits. Continue to incorporate studying into your daily routine by reviewing NCLEX questions throughout the day. 

NCLEX preparation requires a lot of focus, so it is critical to minimize distractions in your workspace. The smartphone is a common distraction; you may want to turn it screen-down on the desk or table, silencing it or putting the device on the “Do Not Disturb” mode. Better yet, consider leaving your phone in another room or your backpack until it’s time to take a break.  

Protect Your Physical and Mental Health 

If you don’t prepare your mind and body to study, you’ll likely tire yourself out and forget information. Think of yourself as an athlete building mental endurance, resting when you need to, and building strength over time. Move around each hour and take regular, short rest breaks to sharpen your mental alertness and improve your memory. Yoga and mini walks do wonders for studying! These strategies will come in handy on the day of the NCLEX when you’ll need speed and mental endurance. 

Take care of your mental health by connecting with others. On top of the stress of preparing for the NCLEX, you’re likely putting high expectations on yourself. Decompress and unplug by connecting with friends and family. Laugh and do something light-hearted at some point in the day! Lean on your social network during this stressful time so you keep things in perspective while enjoying the support of those who want to see you succeed. 

Use an App

Smartphone applications are a fantastic tool for NCLEX test preparation, allowing you to study more efficiently and even on the go.

Some popular apps include NCLEX RN Mastery, Davis Mobile NCLEX-RN, and UWorld NCLEX. Choose one, open it up for a few minutes each day and review flashcards, answer questions, or take quizzes. Some apps even evaluate your practice test answers and quizzes so you know which areas of the exam you need to dedicate more study time to.

Find a Study Group 

Consider forming an NCLEX study group with other nursing school graduates. The study group can even use an online format with a video conferencing program. Not everyone finds study groups helpful, but having a group to work with can help keep you accountable, as well as provide camaraderie and support.

A potential downside of study groups is that some members might distract and waste time more than others. Choose your study partners carefully and make sure everyone understands the importance of staying on track. Think of yourself as a team reaching for the same finish line!  

Take a Complimentary Nursing Review Course 

The pandemic has affected nursing students and recent graduates waiting to take the NCLEX exam. If you are experiencing testing delays because of COVID-19, consider using the time to take a complimentary review course online. A good review course should cover all topics in the NCLEX. It will let you focus on the areas you don’t feel especially confident in, allow you to work at your own pace, and have scheduled live sessions with instructors so you have a chance to ask questions.  

Look for a nursing review course today and take advantage of every resource possible. You will find yourself retaining more information, reinforcing those crucial nursing skills, and gaining the confidence you’re looking for!   

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Leah Gnitka

August 20, 2019

6197 Views

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Advice to the Nursing Student from a Seasoned Travel Nurse

nursing student
Photo by Green Chameleon on Unsplash

Advice to the Nursing Student

Whether you are just starting nursing school or you are in your final year or semester, getting advice from seasoned nurses is always nice, but it is even better when you get advice from a seasoned travel nurse. Below you will find a few pieces of advice to the nursing student from a fellow Gypsy Nurse.

Remember why you started

Everyone has a why.  There was a reason why you chose to do nursing, a reason why this profession called you. There was a reason why you want to go into a career that cares for people. When nursing school is tough, remember why you started in the first place; and by remembering that why, may it encourage you to continue on through the journey. Nursing school won’t last forever.

Team up with classmates

You are all in this together, why not help each other out. Sometimes studying with other classmates can be the best way to study. Maybe you understand something better than someone else, or maybe your friend knows how to explain the process of something to you in a clearer way. Studying with other people can also be more fun and less lonely. Have study sleepovers, library dates, and group study sessions. Nursing school is not a competition; work together to make it through.

Get involved

Get involved in your school, get involved in nursing, get involved in your community. While you’re in college you have the opportunity to take advantage of so many opportunities – so take them! Find a place you can volunteer at (local hospitals, Boys & Girls Club, food shelf, etc.); join a club on campus (Student Nurses Association – *cough cough*); do a summer internship; research ways to get involved during your college years. This is the time for you to both try out new things and work on building your resume.

Cherish the moments

Nursing school doesn’t last forever; nursing school is just a part of your life. It may seem like the longest four years of your life, but once you cross that stage on graduation night it will seem like nursing school just flashed before your eyes. So cherish the moments during this journey. Remember how funny it is when the mannequin’s arm falls off during simulation lab; or how awkward it was asking your classmate to listen to their bowel sounds for your head-to-toe assessment; also, remember the ugly scrubs you had to wear to clinicals; remember all the special moments and look back on it all with a smile.

Remember making it into nursing school is an accomplishment in itself

When days get tough and you don’t think you’ll be able to make it through; remember that you are the rock star the made it into nursing school. Don’t forget how hard it was just to even get in to nursing school, and you made it in for a reason. So if you’re thinking about quitting nursing school, remember how much you’ve already accomplished.

We hope that you found this advice for the nursing student helpful! If you would like more information on travel nursing itself check out our Travel Nurse Guide!