EKG Interpretation Made Easy: What the NCLEX Wants You to Know
Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) interpretation is a critical skill for nurses, and the NCLEX often includes questions on cardiac rhythms. Understanding the basics of EKGs will help you recognize life-threatening arrhythmias and respond appropriately. This guide breaks down essential EKG concepts you need to know for the NCLEX, including rhythm identification, key waveforms, and clinical significance. Understanding the Basics of an EKG An EKG records the electrical activity of the heart and consists of three major components: Additional key components: Common EKG Rhythms on the NCLEX 1. Normal Sinus Rhythm (NSR) 2. Sinus Bradycardia 3. Sinus Tachycardia 4. Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) 5. …
Common Mistakes Test-Takers Make on NCLEX and How to Avoid Them
The NCLEX is a challenging exam that requires a strong understanding of nursing concepts, critical thinking, and test-taking strategies. Many candidates fail not because they lack knowledge but because they make avoidable mistakes. This guide will break down the most common errors test-takers make and provide strategies to help you pass on your first attempt. 1. Mismanaging Time During the Exam The Mistake: How to Avoid It: 2. Overthinking and Changing Answers The Mistake: How to Avoid It: 3. Misreading the Question The Mistake: How to Avoid It: 4. Struggling with Prioritization Questions The Mistake: How to Avoid It: 5. …
The Ultimate Guide to Infection Control for the NCLEX
Infection control is a high-yield topic on the NCLEX because preventing and managing infections is a core responsibility for nurses. The exam frequently tests your ability to apply Standard Precautions, Transmission-Based Precautions, isolation protocols, and aseptic techniques in various clinical scenarios. This guide will break down everything you need to know to ace infection control questions on the NCLEX, including precaution types, PPE guidelines, nursing interventions, and key mnemonics. Understanding Infection Control Basics Standard Precautions (For Every Patient) Standard precautions apply to all patients, regardless of their diagnosis. These measures help prevent the spread of infection by treating all blood, …
NCLEX Pharmacology: The Top 20 Drugs You Must Memorize
Pharmacology is one of the most heavily tested subjects on the NCLEX, and for good reason—medications play a critical role in patient care. Memorizing drug names, classifications, side effects, and nursing considerations can feel overwhelming, but focusing on high-yield medications can make your studying more efficient. In this guide, we’ll break down 20 must-know drugs for the NCLEX, categorized by their primary function, key nursing considerations, and memory tricks to help you recall them faster. 1. Digoxin (Lanoxin) – Cardiac Glycoside *Memory Trick: “Dig” (Digoxin) deeper for a slow and steady heart rate. 2. Metoprolol (Lopressor) – Beta-Blocker *Memory Trick: …