Your Path to Success: 7 Tips for Taking the NCLEX

At Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), our nurses support us where it matters most - at the bedside. In return, LVHN is dedicated to supporting nurses when and where they need it.

Uplifting their teams is a point of pride for LVHN nurse leaders. As Nate Wynosky, MSN, Director of Patient Care Services, describes: “We foster an environment of support and open communication, ensuring every nurse is heard and valued."

This commitment extends to all areas of nursing, beginning right at the onset of a nurse’s journey, with dedicated support as they prepare for and take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The exam is a critical milestone for nursing graduates, determining their readiness to practice safely and effectively.

Passing the NCLEX is mandatory for obtaining a nursing license in the United States and Canada, ensuring standardized competency, protecting patients and maintaining trust in the health care system. 

“At LVHN, we are committed to providing all the necessary support to help our nurses achieve this goal,” says Wynosky. “Most schools partner with a variety of tools to help graduate nurses prepare for their NCLEX. In addition, LVHN partners with a company called Varsity Tutors® to provide support.”

LVHN leaders recognize nurses as the heartbeat of the health network and remain dedicated to a culture of unfailing support and compassion. The leadership strives to foster an environment where nurses are heard and valued. “Whether it’s the NCLEX or any other questions or concerns, your leadership team is always happy to help,” Wynosky adds. 

Recognizing that everyone has different strengths and learns in unique ways, LVHN offers a variety of resources to support your success. This includes a partnership with Varsity Tutors to provide free one-on-one tutoring and preparatory courses.

“For me personally, practice questions and practice tests were incredibly helpful,” says Wynosky. “My advice would be to use every resource you have.”

Here are additional tips and strategies as you prepare for the NCLEX:

1. Create a Study Plan. Set a study schedule, divide the study material into manageable sections and prioritize areas where you need the most improvement.
2. Use Practice Questions and Tests. Take practice exams under timed conditions to get used to the pressure and format of the NCLEX.
3. Utilize Available Resources. Take advantage of the LVHN partnership with Varsity Tutors and use NCLEX study guides and online resources.
4. Focus on Test-Taking Strategies. Familiarize yourself with the NCLEX computer-adaptive testing format and the types of questions asked. Develop strategies to stay calm and focused during the exam.
5. Join a Study Group. Study groups can provide motivation and keep you accountable.
6. Seek Help. Don’t hesitate to seek help from tutors or mentors and always feel free reaching out to LVHN’s experienced nurses and educators for advice.
7. Think Like a Nurse. Practice applying your nursing knowledge to clinical scenarios and always prioritize patient safety and care when answering questions.

At LVHN, we prioritize supporting our nurses at every step. From offering top-tier NCLEX preparation resources to fostering a culture of open communication and unwavering support, we are committed to your success.

We are redefining the future of nursing by empowering, supporting and inspiring our nurses to provide the very best care. Embrace our shared vision and join us in creating a brighter health care future.

Apply now at LVHN.org/nursing.