NCLEX-PN Review Exam Structure, Test Taking Strategies, Using Virtual ATI

Concorde Career CollegeGarden Grove

Computer Adapted Testing (CAT)

• Computer continuously scores answers and selects questions for competency

• More weight placed on more difficult questions• Can use mouse or space bar• Drop down calculator • Confirm answer• Once select “next” cannot go back

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Exam

• Contains 85 to 205 questions– 25 pilot questions

• Have 5 hours– no minimum time– Optional breaks at 2 hours and 3 ½ hours

• Computer shuts off:– If you pass– If you fail– If you run out of time

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Questions

• Types– Multiple choice– Fill in blank (math)– Drag and drop– Auditory– Hot spots

• “Screen in not mirror image”

– Graph, table, or chart– Multiple response

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Structure of Test April 2014

• Safe and effective care environment– Coordinated care 16-22%– Safety and infection control 10-14%

• Physiological in integrity– Basic care and comfort 7-13%– Pharmacological therapies 11-17%– Reduction of risk potential 10-16%– Physiological adaptation 7-13%

• Psychological integrity 8-14% • Health promotion and maintenance 7-13%

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NCLEX Exam

• National Council of State Boards of Nursing– www.ncsbn.org

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Level of Test Questions

• Cognitive• Comprehension• Application ----- MOST ITEMS

– Make decisions– Implement care– Apply knowledge– Prioritization

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Nursing Process

• Data Assessment/Assessment– Always first step– Contributes to develop of nursing diagnosis

• Planning– Assists in formulating goals

• Implementation– Perform therapeutic and preventive measures– Provide safe and effective care

• Evaluation – Often negative stem

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Integrated Areas

AccountabilityPharmacologyNutritionAnatomy and physiologyPathophysiologyPrinciples of asepsisGrowth and developmentDocumentationCommunicationTeaching and learningMental health concepts 10CAGGV

Critical Elements

1. Issue in question– Medication– Nursing problem– Behavior– Disorder– Procedure

2. Client in question

3. Key words

4. Identify stem

5. Pick BEST answer

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Communication Questions

• Identify critical elements• Identify the client• Answer must relate to client• Use tools that enhance communication• Avoid tools that block communication

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Prioritization: Asks the question…

• What comes first?• What is most important?• What gets highest priority?

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Prioritization: Guidelines

• Maslow’s hierarchy– Physiological needs come first -> then safety

• Nursing process– Assessment first

• Communication theory– Focus on feelings first

• Teaching/Learning Theory– Focus on motivation

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Issues to work on……

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Seat Time

Anxiety

Smoking

Manage Anxiety

• Avoid cramming• Do something relaxing night before• Learn and practice relaxation techniques• Visualize success

“I don’t want to take this test again”

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Test-taking Tips

• Prepare comprehensively• Be well rested• Read each question carefully

– Identify critical elements

• Don’t panic if computer stops after short time• Average in California 120 questions

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Planning for Test Day

• Get everything ready to go– Picture ID– Authorization to Test (ATT)– Directions - plan to arrive early

• Plan for yourself– Dress in layers– Sleep well– Eat before you go– Avoid stimulants/depressants– Use bathroom

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Exam Day

• Follow instructions• Pace yourself• Don’t allow distractions• Go with first choice• Keep positive thoughts

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E!!!!

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VIRTUAL ATIA Bridge to Success in a Noble Profession

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Computer Requirements

VATI

• Students are assigned a virtual coach– master degree, experienced nurses– facilitate students progress by providing individual

support– daily communication is available and encouraged.

• Students receive feedback from their coach after each assessment test

• Success nearly 100% when plan followed

Additional information-VATI

• Comprehensive Predictor Exam -> taken at completion of review

• Students have access to:– on demand classroom– virtual bookshelf– NCLEX question of the day

• Students can review materials in print and video format

• Weekly progress report sent to campus to work with students as well

Student Benefit

VATI – Success Story

Any questions?

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