Please go to NBCSN's website to access a list of recommended resources to assist in studying. Since we all learn differently, there are many options available. NBCSN has developed a review book and practice tests. We have also partnered with NurseBuilders to offer an e-course, flash cards, and an e-course on Dealing with anxiety and test-taking strategies.
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Sandi Delack MEd, BSN, RN, NCSN-E, FNASN
Executive Director, NBCSN
sdelack@gmail.com------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 09-17-2024 11:36
From: Christine Barrett, B.S. Nursing
Subject: Welcome to Week #2 Of the Fall 2024 Study Grroup
I am also interested in any podcasts or audio study materials if they are available.
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Christine Barrett B.S. Nursing
West Greenwich, RI United States
Original Message:
Sent: 09-16-2024 09:15
From: Phoebe Ray
Subject: Welcome to Week #2 Of the Fall 2024 Study Grroup
Thank you for these. I am having trouble finding the study group on the actual NASN website- I am only able to access it via clicking on the links in your emails. I know I have found it before but it's really hard to navigate and I can't remember how I got there. Can you help me with this? Also, are there podcasts or other audio materials available for review for the test?
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Phoebe Ray
Philadelphia, MS United States
Original Message:
Sent: 09-15-2024 19:16
From: Sarah Portle, MEd., BSN, RN, NCSN
Subject: Welcome to Week #2 Of the Fall 2024 Study Grroup
Test-Taking Tips for Multiple-Choice Nursing Exam Questions
(Adapted from Nurseslabs)
1. Read Questions Carefully
- Scores are greatly affected by reading ability. To ensure comprehension, follow these steps:
- Carefully read the stem (the question part).
- Ask yourself the following:
- What is the question really asking?
- Are there any keywords?
- What information is relevant to answering the question included in the stem?
- How would I rephrase this question in my own words?
- How would I answer this question in my own words?
- After formulating your own answer, review the options and ask:
- Is there an option that matches my answer?
- Is this option the best, most complete answer?
- Focus on answering the question as it is presented, without making assumptions. This strategy works best for simple recall items and more complex questions.
2. Identify Keywords
- Look for keywords in the stem and the options that indicate caution when choosing an answer.
- Keywords to watch for:
- Always, never, all, every, only, must, no, except, none.
- These words often indicate that the answer containing them may be incorrect because they impose strict limitations.
- Example:
- "All of the following are services of the National Kidney Foundation except:"
- Public education programs
- Research about kidney disease
- Fund-raising for research activities
- Identification of potential transplant recipients
- Keywords: all and except. The correct answer is the one option that does not represent a service of the foundation (option 4).
- If more than one option seems correct, reread the question to ensure you haven't missed a keyword.
3. Additional Resources
- Free Test-Taking Strategies Course: Test Taking Techniques – A Guide for Nursing Certification (NurseBuilders).
- Exam Prep Materials: Available on www.nbcsn.org.
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Sarah T. Portle M.Ed., BSN RN, NCSN
Director for Arizona
Lead Nurse - Arizona State University Prep Academy
PhD Student - Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation
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