Tips For Success: Passing the NCLEX-PN Exam

You’ve worked so hard to accomplish your dream of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and you’re finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, before you can obtain your dream job as an LPN, there is one more hurdle that must be completed and that’s passing the NCLEX-PN, or state exam in order to become licensed to legally work as an LPN.

While the mere thought of taking a test might send some into an all out panic, it doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. Being properly prepared is key to successfully passing the NCLEX-PN.

Here are 9 helpful tips to help you pass the state exam to become an LPN:

1. Study in a Group

While this may not be an option for everyone, studying with fellow nursing students in a group setting can be helpful in getting you test ready. Not only is it calming to surround yourself with like-minded people who are experiencing the same situation, but also studying with your peers can do wonders when it comes to things like retention.

2. Set a Schedule

Procrastination can be a killer when it comes to the NCLEX-PN. This is not the time to put off studying and then attempt to pull an all-nighter to cram for the big exam.

Instead of last minute cramming, it’s a wise idea to set up a study schedule weeks before the actual test date and stick to it.

3. Get Acquainted

Make sure to visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website to fully acquaint yourself with the NCLEX-PN prior to taking the actual exam. Knowing exactly what to expect may help lower some anxiety that comes from not understanding the testing process. Just knowing something as simple as how the questions are formatted, can boost your confidence when your testing day arrives.

4. Get Plenty of Practice

Taking practice tests prior to taking the actual test are crucial when it comes to being fully prepared and knowledgeable about what to expect and how to properly take the test. The more you practice, the more your familiarity and confidence in the process will increase.

5. Follow Up

For the subjects and areas that you’re struggling with on the practice tests, make sure to set some extra time aside to study up on those concepts you’re not fully understanding.

6. Take Care of You

It may seem unrelated, but not getting enough sleep or not eating properly can have a negative impact come test day. Make sure your basic health needs are being met, such as getting plenty of rest, making healthy food choices, exercising, and staying hydrated.

7. Come Prepared

It may sound like common sense, but leaving on time for the test and arriving early is a must, along with wearing comfortable clothing and footwear.

8. Remain Calm and Relaxed

It’s normal to feel a bit nervous when the big day finally arrives, but if you start to feel that your nerves are getting the best of you, take a deep, calming breath.

While it’s true that there’s a lot riding on the NCLEX-PN, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t pass it on the first try.

9. Stay Positive

Although it may seem impossible, maintaining a positive and confident demeanor can do wonders when it comes to achieving the final result.

Whether you’ve been thinking about starting a new career as an LPN or getting near the end of your LPN program and are worried about the NCLEX-PN exam, we hope these tips have calmed your nerves a bit.

Being an LPN is a truly rewarding career, and we have classes forming now with no wait list. Contact Athena Career Academy and talk to one of our admissions counselors today to get your career started.