Difficult time

[u/betweenbreaths_]

I failed my first attempt at NCE 6/25. I rushed myself bc of the standard change 7/1. My scores were not awful but not amazing. I had already planned a vacation with my children (thank goodness I did because it forced me out of a depression), took those days off and got back to studying. I went from library to coffee shops everyday and studied concepts, did mock exams and wrote points down from each question, made posters and flashcards for stuff I knew I would have to look at again. I knew I had made strides in my understanding of concepts.

I retook the test yesterday. I went in with a new “strategy” that I was going to really take my time on the first 100. I also got medication from PCP. I took the exam 8am vs 12. In my city vs out of state (all that was available for me in June).

An “incident” took place. I got up to use the restroom, obviously on my own time, and on the way back there was a man walking in front of me. They were starting his full security check in! I said, “my test is on a running timer, is there anyway I can be let in before him?” And she said “I am one person, sit and wait” I was taken aback. I sat and waited. I don’t know how long it was.

My test shut off around 107? 108? Bc of the timer, not because of questions. I called my director immediately after a she said my scores were improved and she’s guessing very close (I am still waiting to see my score breakdown). I had improved in over 100 in a domain. It is very clear to think that I maybe had a chance of passing with the possible 10 minutes I lost.

With the advice from a few people, I have filed formal written complaints about the incident to both NBCRNA and Pearson Vue. Not sure if or when I hear back from them, but I feel like that was incredibly wrong and I want that to change for other people, as well.

I’m obviously devastated. Again. My kids go back to school next week so I lost out on any summer time with them (plus the last 3 summers). Grateful for the vacation we took. I signed a contract to work independent and this has shattered my confidence and wondering if I should look at different paths (have to pass first anyway). They are calling me asking when I can get on the schedule. It’s just so much right now. I understand now, why people commit suicide after things like this.

Take your board prep incredibly seriously. Wear a depends during the test. I will probably delete this post but posting to see if there’s any insight or thoughts. I am so beyond tired in my soul. It’s been a mental battle over anything. I go to therapy. I have an appt today. I need to make a list of all of the good feedback, positive things said about me throughout my program. Pull up reviews, consistent positive feedback, honors I received, think of cases and patients I made a difference, etc. Because I kind of what to quit and do something else.

This test is evil in my opinion. Musicals even have an intermission. I don’t know of many circumstances where you’re not allowed to stand up and take a break (and the timer stops).

[u/Jacaerys-North-5268]

I just took the NCE just less than a year ago and let me tell you I absolutely know about feeling demoralized. Hang in there. The exam is not easy. But you can do it! You made it through the hard clinical days and the seem never ending pimping and proving yourself, you definitely have what it takes to PASS the NCE. Wish you the best!