The nursing licensure exam may be difficult, but following the tips below will make the road a little less bumpy and take you to a long-awaited career as a registered nurse. Once the NCLEX or National Council Licensure Examination is over, you will wonder why you ever doubted yourself.
Before you take the nursing licensure exam, you will need to:
Get a Good Night's Sleep
This is one of the most important things that a person can do for themselves, yet many times they fail to do this. A good night's sleep is essential to your overall well-being. Adults are recommended to get 7–9 hours of sleep per night, though your specific sleep needs may vary.
Eat Before the Test
Right along with skimping on sleep, eating a good meal is often overlooked. Many people just seem to be too busy, while some state that they are too nervous to eat. Regardless, you should be well nourished and prepared for a lengthy period of testing.
Study Well in Advance of the Test
Don't assume that you can memorize the most difficult subject matter overnight. Give yourself time to take it in small bites, which is the best way for it to "sink in". However, be sure to keep the information fresh in your mind over time.
Have a Study Partner
If having a study partner is not possible, then have someone you know quiz you a few times before the actual exam date. This will help tremendously in determining whether you are retaining what you have studied. It will also help you to gauge which subject matter you need to continue studying and what you can move on from.
Give Yourself Time
Don't rush yourself on the day of the nursing licensure exam. Give yourself plenty of time to dress, eat and travel to your nursing licensure exam testing destination. Rushing to get there will cause unnecessary additional anxiety, which is never a good thing.
Remember that you have already successfully completed the required academics necessary to graduate from the program, so you will do just fine. Taking the nursing licensure exam is a simple formality; have confidence in yourself, and get ready for the challenge!
