NCLEX-PN Review Exam Structure, Test Taking Strategies, Using Virtual ATI Concorde Career College Garden 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 2CAGGV

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 3CAGGV

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 4CAGGV

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% 5CAGGV

NCLEX Exam National Council of State Boards of Nursing – CAGGV6

Level of Test Questions Cognitive Comprehension Application MOST ITEMS –Make decisions –Implement care –Apply knowledge –Prioritization 7CAGGV

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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 9CAGGV

Integrated Areas  Accountability  Pharmacology  Nutrition  Anatomy and physiology  Pathophysiology  Principles of asepsis  Growth and development  Documentation  Communication  Teaching and learning  Mental 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 11CAGGV

Communication Questions Identify critical elements Identify the client Answer must relate to client Use tools that enhance communication Avoid tools that block communication 12CAGGV

Prioritization: Asks the question… What comes first? What is most important? What gets highest priority? CAGGV13

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 CAGGV14

Issues to work on…… CAGGV15 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” CAGGV16

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 CAGGV17

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 CAGGV18

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!!!! 19CAGGV

VIRTUAL ATI A Bridge to Success in a Noble Profession CAGGV20

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? 27CAGGV