5 Signs You Passed the NCLEX and What to Do If You Failed
As an aspiring nurse, passing the NCLEX is a crucial milestone in your career.
The anticipation of waiting for the results can be nerve-wracking, leading to countless hours of hair-pulling and second-guessing. Over time, nursing students have identified some signs that may hint at whether they passed or not.
In this article, we will discuss the top 5 signs that indicate a successful NCLEX attempt and what to do if you fail.
Signs You Passed the NCLEX
1. Increasing Difficulty of Questions Before Test Completion
The NCLEX employs a computer-adaptive testing (CAT) format, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your performance.
If you notice that questions become more challenging as the test progresses and before it ends, this could be a sign of a successful attempt. However, keep in mind that this indication is not entirely foolproof, as individual perceptions of question difficulty may vary.
It’s crucial to consider the complexity of the questions in general rather than just how difficult they seem to you personally.
2. Positive Pearson Vue Quick Results
Pearson Vue provides an option to purchase unofficial results two days after taking the exam in most US states and territories, excluding Canada and Australia.
While the additional cost and waiting time may not be ideal, a passing result on the quick results is a strong indication of success.
It’s important to remember that the quick results are not official, but they can give you some peace of mind while you wait for the final results from your state board of nursing.
3. Successful Pearson Vue Trick Attempt
The Pearson Vue Trick is an unofficial method used by nursing students to gauge their NCLEX results. This trick involves trying to re-register for the NCLEX exam.
If the system prevents you from registering, it could mean that you passed the test. Although not 100% accurate, this trick has been shown to be relatively reliable over the years.
However, keep in mind that there may still be some discrepancies or changes in the system that could affect the trick’s accuracy.
4. High Confidence and Adequate Preparation Entering the Exam
Your emotional state and preparedness going into the NCLEX can play a significant role in your success. If you felt well-prepared, confident, and focused on the day of the exam, the odds may be in your favor.
Since approximately 85% of students pass the NCLEX, having a strong foundation in nursing concepts, taking a reputable NCLEX prep course, pacing yourself during the test, and getting a good night’s sleep before the exam can significantly increase your chances of success.
5. Strong Performance on an NCLEX Predictor Test
Many NCLEX prep courses include predictor exams designed to estimate your performance on the actual test. These exams are typically comprehensive and may even be more challenging than the NCLEX itself.
Scoring well on a predictor test is usually an excellent indication of your likelihood of passing the NCLEX. It’s important to note that while predictor exams can be a valuable tool, they should not be the sole basis of your confidence in passing.
Continue to study, review, and prepare for the exam as you normally would, regardless of your predictor test performance.
What to Do If You Fail the NCLEX: A Comprehensive Guide
Failing the NCLEX can be disheartening, but it’s essential to remember that it’s not the end of your nursing journey. Many successful nurses have faced this setback and overcome it. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if you fail the NCLEX:
1. Allow Yourself Time to Process the Disappointment
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions after failing the NCLEX, including disappointment, frustration, and sadness.
Give yourself some time to process these feelings and come to terms with the situation. Taking a short break from studying will help you regroup and approach your next attempt with a fresh perspective.
2. Reflect on Your Exam Experience
Once you’ve allowed yourself time to process your emotions, take a step back and reflect on your exam experience.
Identify the specific areas or concepts that you found challenging during the test. Make note of any issues you faced with time management, test anxiety, or other factors that could have affected your performance.
3. Develop a Targeted Study Plan
Create a study plan that focuses on the areas you need to improve. Break down each topic into smaller, manageable sections, and set realistic goals for mastering each one.
Make sure to allocate enough time for reviewing previously learned material and incorporating new study strategies to keep your learning fresh and engaging.
4. Consider Enrolling in an NCLEX Prep Course or Seeking Additional Support
If you haven’t already taken an NCLEX prep course, now might be the time to consider enrolling in one. These courses are designed to help you build a strong foundation in nursing concepts and develop effective test-taking strategies.
Additionally, consider seeking support from mentors, tutors, or study groups. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can provide valuable insights and motivation.
5. Implement Test-Taking Strategies and Stress Management Techniques
Developing effective test-taking strategies is crucial to your success in the NCLEX. Focus on mastering techniques such as process of elimination, prioritization, and time management.
Additionally, learn stress management techniques like deep breathing, visualization, or meditation to help manage anxiety and stay focused during the exam.
6. Retake the Exam with Confidence
After adequately preparing and addressing the areas that led to your initial failure, approach the NCLEX with renewed confidence. Remember that you’ve put in the hard work and have learned from your past experience. Trust in your abilities and knowledge, and give the exam your best effort.
7. Stay Positive and Keep Moving Forward
Regardless of the outcome, it’s essential to stay positive and keep moving forward. Failing the NCLEX does not define your worth as a nursing professional.
Learn from your mistakes, grow from the experience, and stay committed to your goals. With determination and persistence, you can overcome this hurdle and achieve success in your nursing career.
