NCLEX EXAM CRAM SHEET FOR EXAM
PREPARATIONS
NCLEX TIPS
1) Do not read into the question- never assume anything
that has not been specifically mentioned (in the question)
and do not add extra meaning or history to the question—do
not make up a story to validate choosing an answer
2) NCLEX land is set at Utopia General Hospital - you have all
the time, all the resources, and all the staff you need!
3) Least invasive to most invasive – least restrictive to most
restrictive (restraints are rarely a good choice)
4) Avoid using absolutes- always, never, must, etc.
5) Assess the client first before implementing a treatment or action
—if there’s a choice that pertains to assessment of the patient—
it is usually the answer – assess unless in distress
6) Priority goes to assessments and answers that deal with the
patient (patient-focused) directly and not with
machines/monitors/equipment (unless the question is
specifically asking about them)
a. Ex: Auscultate fetal heart rate before checking the monitor
7) If it is the FIRST time doing something for or with the
patient (such as vital signs upon admission to the floor/unit,
or when a transfer is involved), the NURSE must complete
the assessment- including vital signs
8) If patient is an adult, answers with family options can be ruled
out (unless patient is not competent to make own decisions)
9) In emergency situations (mass casualty), patients with
greater chance to live are treated first
10) If you are asked about the FIRST action you would take in a
prioritization/discrimination question think: “If I can only
do one action, and then I must go home, what will the
outcome be?”
11) Therapeutic communication- reflect feelings and
provide correct information
12) Do not ask “why” questions (or yes/no) and do not say “I
understand”
13) An answer that delays care or treatment is usually wrong (Ex:
reassess in 15 minutes, monitor the patient for a continuation
of symptoms)
14) When determining interventions to enhance a client’s
wellness, consider options that promote healthy nutrition,
regular exercise, proper weight maintenance, proper rest, and
avoidance of harmful chemicals (nicotine) and risk-taking
behaviors (not wearing a seat belt)
15) If two of the answer choices are the exact opposite, one is
probably the answer (ie. bradycardia, tachycardia)
